Oklahoma has a chance to get a big win over a ranked Arkansas squad. Who are the key players to watch for this important matchup?
TV schedule: Saturday, December 10th, 1:00 pm ET ESPN2
Arena: BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Coming into the season, there was a lot of hype surrounding Arkansas (8-1) and to this point, they’ve handed business. And this was mostly without five-star freshman guard Nick Smith, who was injured and missed the first six games. He’s averaging 12.7 ppg and 2.7 apg while still getting his legs under him. Anthony Black did a nice job in his place running the offense, including an impressive showing in the Maui Invitational.
The bad news for the Razorbacks is that they’re going to be without Trevon Brazile for the rest of the year after suffering an ACL injury. The transfer from Missouri was averaging 12.8 ppg and 6.0 rpg on the season in 27 mpg off the bench and was a great defensive presence inside. His absence will be missed, starting with this weekend’s matchup with Oklahoma (7-2).
The Sooners are coming off a 75-53 victory over Kansas City, led by 24 points from Grant Sherfield. He leads the team with nearly 18 ppg, while center Tanner Groves is the only other player on the roster with 11.1 ppg and 6.9 rpg. They’re not a team that scores much but are one of the better defensive units in the country, giving up fewer than 60 ppg.
Arkansas’ offense will be more perimeter-oriented than ever without Brazile, led by leading scorer Ricky Council IV, who is averaging 18.4 ppg. If he has a good game, the SEC program should be in a good spot. But if the Sooners slow him down and the freshmen struggle, this could easily be a low-scoring contest.
Oklahoma’s own resume isn’t bad but a win over Arkansas would be a great signature victory to have going forward. Having to deal with refiguring out the roster now that Brazile is out will have an impact and Coach Porter Moser will be able to take advantage.
Prediction: Oklahoma 68, Arkansas 81