Sooners Secure Commanding Win in Season Opener
The Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball team kicked off their 2024 season with a commanding victory over Southern University, winning 76-44 at the Lloyd Noble Center on Monday night. This impressive performance set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season under head coach Jennie Baranczyk.
Strong Start
The Sooners wasted no time asserting their dominance, jumping to an early lead and never looking back. They scored the game’s first 10 points and held Southern scoreless for the first five minutes. By halftime, Oklahoma had built a substantial 25-point lead, which they extended to 41 points in the fourth quarter.
Key Players
Transfer center Raegan Beers made an immediate impact in her debut for the Sooners, scoring 21 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. Beers, a third team Associated Press All-American from Oregon State, showcased her skills on both ends of the court, making 8 of 11 field goals2. Sophomore Sahara Williams also shone brightly, adding a career-high 19 points and demonstrating her improved three-point shooting.
Dominance on the Boards
One of the critical factors in Oklahoma’s victory was their dominance on the boards. The Sooners outrebounded the Lady Jaguars 54-21, showcasing their physicality and control in the paint. This rebounding edge allowed Oklahoma to maintain possession and control the game’s tempo.
Looking Ahead
With this win, the Sooners have set a high standard for the season. They will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Virginia of the Atlantic Coast Conference on Friday night. Meanwhile, Southern continues their road trip with a game against Missouri on Thursday afternoon.
Coach’s Perspective
Head coach Jennie Baranczyk expressed her satisfaction with the team’s performance, noting the importance of starting the season strong and setting the tone for future games. This victory marks Baranczyk’s fifth straight home opening win since taking over as head coach.
This win marks a strong start for the Sooners as they look to build on their success this season.
