Chris
In a commanding display of defensive prowess, the Georgia Bulldogs men’s basketball team secured a 72-62 victory over the No. 17 Oklahoma Sooners on Saturday in Athens, Georgia. This triumph marked Georgia’s second consecutive win against a ranked opponent, following their upset of No. 6 Kentucky earlier in the week.
The Bulldogs’ defense was instrumental in this victory, effectively neutralizing Oklahoma’s offensive threats. Freshman guard Jeremiah Fears, who had been averaging 18 points per game, was limited to just two points on 1-of-11 shooting, thanks to Georgia’s relentless defensive pressure.
Offensively, Georgia was led by Asa Newell and Dakota Leffew, each contributing 15 points. Silas Demary Jr. added 10 points and eight rebounds, showcasing the team’s balanced attack. The Bulldogs’ dominance was further evident in their interior defense, as they recorded eight blocks, with 6-foot-11 freshmen Newell and Somto Cyril combining for six.
The game began with Georgia asserting control, jumping to a 19-10 lead. However, Oklahoma responded with a 16-3 run, taking a 26-22 advantage. The Bulldogs regained momentum before halftime, narrowing the deficit to 36-33. In the second half, Georgia’s aggressive play drew numerous fouls, leading to 37 free throw attempts, of which they converted 27. This proficiency from the line was pivotal in building and maintaining their lead.
Oklahoma’s offense struggled to find rhythm, particularly in the latter stages. The Sooners were held without a field goal for nearly four minutes late in the second half, allowing Georgia to extend their lead. Jalon Moore led Oklahoma with 17 points and nine rebounds but fouled out in the final minute, limiting the Sooners’ options down the stretch.
This victory improves Georgia’s record to 14-2 overall and 2-1 in Southeastern Conference play, strengthening their case for a spot in the AP Top 25 rankings, a position they haven’t held since 2011. The Bulldogs’ recent performances against ranked opponents highlight their potential to be a formidable force in the conference.
Looking ahead, Georgia faces a challenging schedule with upcoming games against top-ranked teams, including a visit to No. 1 Tennessee. Maintaining their defensive intensity and balanced scoring will be crucial as they navigate this demanding stretch.
In summary, Georgia’s inspired defensive performance against Oklahoma underscores their emergence as a competitive team in the SEC, with aspirations of national recognition and success in the postseason.
