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Sooners Grapple with Consistency Amidst Evolving System

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 3:00 GMT by on3.com
      Locales: Oklahoma, UNITED STATES

NORMAN, Okla. - As the calendar flips to the final month of January, the Oklahoma Sooners men's basketball team finds itself firmly in the second half of the 2025-2026 season, navigating the complexities of Porter Moser's evolving system. With the first half of the schedule now in the rearview mirror, a critical assessment reveals a team showing flashes of potential, but one still grappling with consistency and fundamental execution. On3's Roger Denny recently shared his insights, and this article expands on those points, examining the key areas driving the Sooners' performance - and holding them back.

The Offensive Balancing Act: Pace vs. Efficiency

The Sooners, under Moser, are clearly aiming for an up-tempo style of play. Currently ranked 27th nationally in adjusted tempo with 74.8 possessions per game, the intent is obvious: push the pace, exploit defensive weaknesses in transition, and create open looks. However, the statistical disconnect lies in the offensive efficiency ranking of 105th. This suggests that while the volume of shots is there, the quality - and ultimately, the conversion rate - is lagging. Denny rightly points to execution as a primary concern, understandable for a team adapting to a new scheme. The emphasis on freedom and player initiative is laudable, but freedom without precision can quickly become chaotic.

The glaring issue contributing to this inefficiency is turnovers. Ranking a dismal 201st in the nation with 14.4 turnovers per game, the Sooners are effectively gifting possessions to their opponents. These aren't merely careless errors; they are symptomatic of rushed decision-making and a lack of cohesion in critical moments. Addressing this requires more than just practice drills; it necessitates improved court awareness, sharper passing, and a clearer understanding of roles within the offensive structure. The Sooners need to transition from simply trying to play fast to playing smart fast.

Defensive Deficiencies: A Foundation for Concern

The offensive struggles are compounded by significant defensive woes. Oklahoma's adjusted defensive efficiency ranks a concerning 236th nationally, indicating a porous defense consistently giving up points. This isn't merely a matter of effort; it's a systemic breakdown. Opponents are finding it too easy to penetrate, get to the rim, and create high-percentage scoring opportunities. Denny correctly identifies rebounding and perimeter defense as critical areas needing immediate improvement.

The rebounding numbers are particularly alarming. A national ranking of 312th with just 32.9 rebounds per game, and a shocking 337th in defensive rebounding, paints a picture of a team consistently second to the ball. This allows opponents second-chance points, extends possessions, and demoralizes the Sooners' defense. The issue isn't necessarily a lack of athleticism, but a lack of consistent boxing out, positioning, and a collective commitment to crashing the boards. Perimeter defense also suffers from a lack of physicality; allowing too much driving penetration and easy access to the basket.

The Bench Battle: Consistency is Key

While starters receive the majority of the attention, a team's success often hinges on the contributions of its bench. Oklahoma's reserves have shown flashes of potential, providing valuable minutes and scoring opportunities. However, Denny's observation - that they need to be more consistent - is crucial. A reliable bench provides vital rest for starters, maintains the team's intensity, and can shift momentum in close games. Inconsistent play from the reserves creates a drop-off in production that can be exploited by opponents. Developing a dependable rotation and empowering bench players to confidently execute their roles is essential.

Looking Ahead: The Path to Improvement

Despite the challenges, there is a cautious optimism surrounding the Sooners' trajectory under Moser. The team is showing signs of progress, and the commitment to an up-tempo style offers a clear identity. However, sustained success demands addressing the fundamental issues highlighted by Denny. Improving rebounding, tightening up the defense, and reducing turnovers aren't overnight fixes; they require relentless work in practice, focused coaching, and a collective buy-in from the entire team.

The remaining schedule presents both opportunities and obstacles. The Sooners need to demonstrate tangible improvement in these key areas to realistically compete for an NCAA Tournament berth. While the path is challenging, the potential is there, and the second half of the season will be a critical test of Moser's ability to build a consistently competitive program in Norman. The Sooners aren't just building a team; they're building a culture.