NORMAN — The stage is set for an electrifying Bedlam showdown as Oklahoma prepares to face Oklahoma State at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City this Saturday. The matchup comes on the heels of an exciting preview at the Jerry Colangelo Classic in Phoenix, where Oklahoma State showcased its performance with a thrilling 84-78 victory over Grand Canyon. This win improved Oklahoma State’s season record to an impressive 9-0, underlining the team’s rapid ascent in the early season.
Oklahoma head coach Porter Moser noted the advantage of his team being able to observe Oklahoma State in action. “Our guys got to see them firsthand, the pace they play with,” he stated, highlighting the mutual respect between the two programs. Oklahoma State, led by coach Steve Lutz, has been playing at a blistering pace this season, currently ranked seventh nationally in adjusted tempo according to KenPom statistics. The Cowboys average a striking 74.6 possessions per 40 minutes, a stark contrast to Oklahoma’s more deliberate approach, where they rank 223rd with 67.8 possessions per 40 minutes.
This clash of contrasting styles adds an intriguing layer to the highly anticipated rivalry game. With Oklahoma holding a 6-3 record, this match represents a critical moment in their nonconference schedule. The Sooners are coming into this game after a challenging stretch that included a recent 86-70 loss to Arizona State, marking their second straight defeat in a series of high-major nonconference games.
The upcoming Bedlam game promises not only to highlight the fierce rivalry between the two schools but also serves as a pivotal point for Oklahoma as it seeks to find its groove before heading into the conference portion of the season. Fans can expect a thrilling display of contrasting strategies and high-stakes basketball as the Sooners and Cowboys vie for supremacy in this storied matchup. Tune in at noon on Fox for what promises to be an intense and gripping encounter.
