Oklahoma loses a tough nonconference matchup to Villanova 70-66
Oklahoma dropped a winnable nonconference game that could come back to bite them in March.
On a trip to the east coast to play new basketball powerhouse Villanova, the Sooners controlled the action for much of the game before watching their lead wilt away before losing to the Wildcats 70-66.
Villanova entered the game at 2-5, but that was hardly an indicator of the type of team they can and likely will be. The Sooners were led by Grant Sherfield, who posted 21 points, four rebounds, and four assists. He was flanked by the Groves’ who chipped in 14 points apiece.
Oklahoma outrebounded Villanova 27-18 but was outshot by the Wildcats, who shot over 55 percent from the field. Being outrebounded won’t matter if you make more shots than your opponent.
Villanova ended the game on a 17-7 run to seal the deal, with their defense leading the way. Five-star freshman Cam Whitmore led all players with three steals.
The Sooners, who saw their six-game winning streak end, built an early 11-point lead and were in control all game until Wildcats’ leading scorer Caleb Daniels gave them a 64-61 lead on a tough drive and finish late in the contest.
Jalen Hill made just the first of his 1-and-1, and a three-pointer from Daniels was the final blow to seal it, and the Wildcats iced it from the free-throw line.
Oklahoma will return to action on Tuesday against the Kansas City Roos.
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