On March 6, 2025, the Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball team secured a decisive 70-52 victory over the Georgia Bulldogs in the second round of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
Game Overview
The Sooners, entering the tournament as the fifth seed, extended their winning streak to eight games with this triumph, improving their overall record to 24-6. This victory set up a quarterfinal matchup against the fourth-seeded Kentucky Wildcats, who had previously handed Oklahoma their most recent loss on February 2, 2025.
Key Performances
Junior center Raegan Beers delivered an outstanding performance, leading all scorers with 22 points, grabbing eight rebounds, and recording three blocks. Her dominance in the paint was evident, as she exploited mismatches against Georgia’s defense, shooting an efficient 9-of-14 from the field. This marked Beers’ fourth 20-plus point game in her last five outings, underscoring her pivotal role in Oklahoma’s offense.
Contributions from the bench were also significant for the Sooners. Liz Scott added 11 points and matched Beers with eight rebounds, while Zya Vann chipped in 10 points. The team’s depth was on full display, providing a balanced scoring attack that kept Georgia’s defense on its heels.
Defensive Prowess
Oklahoma’s defensive efforts were particularly noteworthy. The team amassed a season-high 10 blocks, tying their previous best against DePaul earlier in the season. This defensive intensity stifled Georgia’s offense, holding the Bulldogs to a 28% shooting percentage from the field and a mere 4-of-20 from three-point range.
Game Progression
The Sooners established control early, leading 36-29 at halftime. A pivotal moment occurred late in the second quarter when Georgia trimmed the lead to two points. However, Beers responded with a crucial basket, igniting a 7-0 run that shifted the momentum firmly in Oklahoma’s favor. The Sooners dominated the third quarter, outscoring the Bulldogs 15-7, and entered the final period with a commanding 15-point lead.
Team Dynamics
A hallmark of Oklahoma’s play was their unselfish ball movement. The team recorded 27 assists on 29 made field goals, reflecting a cohesive and collaborative offensive strategy. This level of teamwork not only facilitated high-percentage shots but also showcased the players’ trust in one another’s abilities.
Postgame Reflections
Head coach Jennie Baranczyk expressed satisfaction with her team’s performance, particularly their defensive tenacity and offensive execution. She highlighted the importance of maintaining this level of play as they prepare for the upcoming challenge against Kentucky. The players echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the significance of their defensive efforts and the need to sustain their momentum.
Looking Ahead
The Sooners’ upcoming quarterfinal clash with Kentucky presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The Wildcats, ranked 12th nationally, secured a double bye in the tournament, partly due to their earlier victory over Oklahoma. The Sooners aim to avenge that loss and continue their pursuit of an SEC Tournament title.
In preparation, Oklahoma will focus on analyzing game footage to address areas of improvement, particularly in countering Kentucky’s offensive strategies. Emphasizing defensive consistency and maintaining their effective ball movement will be crucial components of their game plan.
Oklahoma’s 70-52 victory over Georgia not only extended their winning streak but also demonstrated their readiness for the challenges ahead in the SEC Tournament. With key players like Raegan Beers performing at high levels and a team-wide commitment to defensive excellence, the Sooners are poised to make a deep run in the postseason. The upcoming matchup against Kentucky will serve as a litmus test for their championship aspirations, providing an opportunity to showcase their growth and resilience.
