The Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball team is set to host the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Saturday, March 22, 2025, facing the Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) Eagles. This matchup not only marks a significant moment for the Sooners but also serves as a rematch of their thrilling encounter in the previous year’s tournament.
In the 2024 NCAA Tournament, the fifth-seeded Sooners edged out a narrow victory over the 12th-seeded Eagles, winning 73-70 in Bloomington, Indiana. The game was intensely competitive, with FGCU leading for 32 minutes before Oklahoma secured the win in the final moments. Skylar Vann led the Sooners with 24 points, while FGCU’s Emani Jefferson recorded a double-double with 22 points and 12 rebounds. citeturn0search2
This year, the stakes are higher as the Sooners earned a No. 3 seed and the opportunity to host the first-round game at Lloyd Noble Center in Norman, Oklahoma. The Sooners boast a 25-7 record, including an 11-7 mark in their inaugural season in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Their performance has been bolstered by standout players such as Skylar Vann, who was named Big 12 Co-Player of the Year before the conference realignment, and Payton Verhulst, the league’s Newcomer of the Year. Head coach Jennie Baranczyk, in her third season with Oklahoma, has led the team to three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, reflecting the program’s resurgence under her guidance. citeturn0search3
The FGCU Eagles enter the tournament as a No. 14 seed with a 30-3 record, having secured their ninth consecutive Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) Tournament title. Under the leadership of first-year head coach Chelsea Lyles, the Eagles maintained an unblemished 18-0 conference record. FGCU is renowned for its prolific three-point shooting, averaging 8.6 made threes per game, ranking 21st nationally. The team’s offense is spearheaded by ASUN Player of the Year Emani Jefferson and sharpshooter Dolly Cairns, who leads the team with 61 made triples, shooting an impressive 44.9% from beyond the arc. citeturn0search1
The Eagles have a history of NCAA Tournament upsets, being the winningest 12th seed in tournament history. They have previously defeated higher-seeded teams such as Missouri in 2018, Virginia Tech in 2022, and Washington State in 2023. Their experience and resilience make them a formidable opponent, regardless of seeding. citeturn0search1
Both teams are known for their high-octane offenses and three-point shooting prowess, setting the stage for an exciting and fast-paced game. The Sooners average 25.7 three-point attempts per game, ranking 17th nationally, while the Eagles put up an average of 30.2 shots from behind the arc, leading the nation in made threes per game over the last four seasons. citeturn0search0
Hosting the first-round game provides the Sooners with a significant home-court advantage, as they have been formidable at Lloyd Noble Center this season. However, the Eagles’ track record of tournament upsets and their relentless style of play ensure that they will not be easily subdued.
The rematch between Oklahoma and FGCU is not just a contest between a No. 3 and No. 14 seed; it’s a clash of two programs with distinct styles and rich histories of success. Fans can anticipate a thrilling game that embodies the unpredictability and excitement of March Madness.
Tip-off is scheduled for 4 p.m. Central Time, with the game broadcast nationally, allowing fans across the country to witness this compelling matchup. The winner will advance to the second round, inching closer to the coveted Final Four in Tampa, Florida. citeturn0news13
As both teams prepare to leave it all on the court, this first-round game promises to be a highlight of the tournament, showcasing the passion, skill, and determination that define NCAA women’s basketball.
