25 Facts About Oklahoma Basketball

Oklahoma Basketball History

Oklahoma basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and legendary players. Here are some fascinating facts about the team’s journey through the years.

1. First Game: Oklahoma's basketball team played its first game in 1907, defeating Oklahoma City High School 50-20.

2. First Coach: The first head coach was Bennie Owen, who also coached the football team.

3. First Conference Title: Oklahoma won its first conference title in 1928 under coach Hugh McDermott.

4. First NCAA Tournament Appearance: The team made its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1939.

Legendary Coaches

Oklahoma basketball has been shaped by some of the most influential coaches in the sport. These coaches have left a lasting legacy on the program.

5. Bruce Drake: Coached from 1938 to 1955, leading the team to two Final Fours.

6. Billy Tubbs: Coached from 1980 to 1994, known for his high-scoring teams and leading Oklahoma to the 1988 NCAA Championship game.

7. Kelvin Sampson: Coached from 1994 to 2006, taking the team to 11 NCAA Tournaments.

8. Lon Kruger: Coached from 2011 to 2021, leading the team to the Final Four in 2016.

Memorable Seasons

Certain seasons stand out in Oklahoma basketball history due to their remarkable achievements and unforgettable moments.

9. 1987-1988 Season: The team reached the NCAA Championship game but lost to Kansas.

10. 2001-2002 Season: Oklahoma won the Big 12 Tournament and reached the Final Four.

11. 2015-2016 Season: Led by Buddy Hield, the team made it to the Final Four.

Star Players

Oklahoma has produced numerous star players who have made significant contributions to the team and gone on to have successful professional careers.

12. Wayman Tisdale: Three-time All-American and the first player in NCAA history to be named a first-team All-American as a freshman.

13. Blake Griffin: Won the Naismith College Player of the Year award in 2009 and was the first overall pick in the NBA Draft.

14. Buddy Hield: Two-time Big 12 Player of the Year and winner of the 2016 John R. Wooden Award.

15. Trae Young: Led the nation in points and assists per game in 2018 and was a top-five pick in the NBA Draft.

Rivalries

Rivalries add excitement and intensity to the game, and Oklahoma has its fair share of fierce competitors.

16. Bedlam Series: The rivalry with Oklahoma State is one of the most intense in college basketball.

17. Red River Rivalry: The rivalry with Texas extends beyond football, with memorable basketball matchups as well.

Home Court Advantage

Playing at home provides a significant advantage, and Oklahoma’s home court has seen many thrilling games.

18. Lloyd Noble Center: Opened in 1975, it has a seating capacity of over 10,000.

19. Record Attendance: The highest attendance for a game at Lloyd Noble Center was 13,431 in 1989 against Missouri.

Community and Culture

Oklahoma basketball is not just about the game; it’s about the community and culture that surrounds it.

20. Sooner Schooner: The Sooner Schooner, a covered wagon, is a symbol of the University of Oklahoma and appears at basketball games.

21. Boomer Sooner: The fight song, "Boomer Sooner," is played at every game, energizing the crowd.

Academic Achievements

Oklahoma basketball players excel not only on the court but also in the classroom.

22. Academic All-Americans: Several players have been named Academic All-Americans, highlighting their dedication to academics.

23. Graduation Rate: The team boasts a high graduation rate, emphasizing the importance of education.

Community Involvement

The team is actively involved in the community, making a positive impact off the court.

24. Charity Work: Players and coaches participate in various charitable activities, including hospital visits and youth clinics.

25. Fan Engagement: The team engages with fans through social media, autograph sessions, and community events.

Oklahoma Basketball: A Legacy of Excellence

Oklahoma basketball has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments. From the Sooners' impressive NCAA tournament runs to the individual accolades of standout players, the program has consistently been a force in college basketball. The passionate fan base, known for their unwavering support, adds to the electric atmosphere at games, making every match an event to remember.

The dedication of coaches and players over the years has built a legacy that continues to inspire new generations. Whether it's the thrill of a buzzer-beater or the strategic brilliance on the court, Oklahoma basketball never fails to captivate. As the program looks to the future, the foundation of excellence laid down through decades promises even more exciting chapters ahead. Oklahoma basketball isn't just a sport; it's a tradition that unites and excites fans everywhere.