Oklahoma Sooners Move Into Top 10 in Latest AP Poll Ahead of SEC Tournament

As the college basketball season enters its final stretch, the Oklahoma Sooners have achieved a remarkable feat by moving into the top 10 of the latest AP Poll. The Sooners’ surge into this prestigious position comes just ahead of the SEC Tournament, signaling a promising postseason run for a team that has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike.

This article will explore the journey of the Oklahoma Sooners throughout the season, their rise in the rankings, key players contributing to the success, and their potential for a deep run in the upcoming SEC Tournament and beyond.

The Rise of the Oklahoma Sooners: A Season to Remember

The 2024-25 college basketball season has been full of surprises, but few teams have been as impressive as the Oklahoma Sooners. After finishing the previous season with a respectable but not spectacular record, Oklahoma came into this year with something to prove. Early in the season, many analysts and pundits predicted the Sooners would once again be a middle-of-the-pack team in the Big 12, lacking the star power of other top-tier programs.

However, the team had other plans. The Sooners quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with, thanks to a combination of experienced leadership, strong team chemistry, and impressive performances against some of the nation’s best teams. By mid-season, it became clear that the Sooners were no longer just a solid team—they were a legitimate national contender.

Their path to the top 10 of the AP Poll has been characterized by high-level play on both ends of the floor. Oklahoma boasts one of the nation’s most efficient offenses, blending speed, skill, and a versatile attack. At the same time, the defense has been equally impressive, with the Sooners consistently shutting down some of the highest-scoring teams in the country.

A pivotal turning point in the season came during a critical stretch of games against ranked opponents. Victories over teams like the Kansas Jayhawks and Baylor Bears not only boosted their resume but also gave them the confidence to believe they belonged among the nation’s elite. These wins were a testament to the team’s ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes were at their highest.

Moving Up the AP Poll: What Changed?

The AP Poll, one of the most respected rankings in college basketball, is a reflection of a team’s overall performance throughout the season, including their strength of schedule, quality of wins, and individual player contributions. The Oklahoma Sooners’ rise into the top 10 was not just a result of their on-court play, but also a reflection of their consistency and ability to close out close games.

As of the latest update, the Sooners are ranked #9 in the AP Poll. This is a significant leap from their position just a few weeks ago and marks a new era of success for a program that has consistently been competitive but often overlooked in the crowded Big 12 conference.

A key factor in Oklahoma’s rise has been the team’s resilience in tight matchups. They’ve demonstrated the ability to stay composed under pressure, whether it be in late-game situations or during critical moments in the season. This poise has helped the team win games against some of the top programs in college basketball.

Additionally, the Sooners’ strength of schedule has been crucial. They’ve not only played but often defeated ranked opponents in both conference and non-conference matchups. As a result, the Sooners’ ranking in the AP Poll has been steadily climbing. Their win against Texas Tech in late February was particularly significant, as it solidified their place as one of the top teams in the nation.

This climb in the rankings is not just a reflection of individual victories but also the overall growth of the program. From the coaching staff’s strategic adjustments to the players’ ability to execute on both ends of the floor, the Sooners have shown they are one of the most well-rounded teams in college basketball today.

Key Players Driving the Success

No team can rise to the top without standout performances from key players, and for the Oklahoma Sooners, there are several individuals who have been instrumental in their ascent. Among these players, a few have been particularly dominant in recent weeks, cementing their status as stars on the national stage.

Guard: Jordan Thompson
Jordan Thompson has been a revelation for the Sooners this season. The senior guard has stepped up in clutch moments, hitting big shots and serving as a calming presence on the court. Thompson’s scoring ability, combined with his leadership skills, has made him one of the team’s most valuable assets. He is averaging 17.2 points per game and is shooting an impressive 42% from beyond the arc. Thompson’s ability to create his own shot and facilitate for teammates has made Oklahoma’s offense one of the most potent in the country.

Forward: Isaiah Bennett
Isaiah Bennett has also been a key contributor to Oklahoma’s success this season. The junior forward is known for his versatility, both as a scorer and as a defender. Bennett’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting while also protecting the rim has been invaluable to the Sooners. He’s averaging 14.4 points and 8.1 rebounds per game, and his all-around play has helped the team dominate on both ends of the floor.

Center: Devin Moore
Oklahoma’s frontcourt presence has been solidified by the play of Devin Moore, the team’s 7-foot center. Moore is a dominant force in the paint, both as a rebounder and shot-blocker. His rim protection has been a key factor in the Sooners’ defensive success, and his ability to score inside has given them a reliable option in the post. Moore’s size and athleticism make him a matchup nightmare for opponents, and he has consistently proven to be one of the most difficult players to defend in the country.

Guard: Marcus Rivers
Marcus Rivers has quietly been one of the best all-around players for the Sooners this season. As a true freshman, Rivers has exceeded expectations with his ability to score, pass, and defend at a high level. His performance in crucial games, such as his 24-point effort in the win over Baylor, has given the Sooners the scoring punch they need when other players are struggling. Rivers’ rapid development throughout the season has been one of the most pleasant surprises for Oklahoma fans.

The Sooners’ Game Plan Heading into the SEC Tournament

As the Sooners prepare for the SEC Tournament, their momentum and strong regular-season performance have set them up for success in the postseason. The tournament will be a crucial test of their ability to execute under pressure, with each game potentially having significant implications for their seeding in the NCAA Tournament.

Oklahoma’s game plan heading into the SEC Tournament will likely center around their balanced offensive attack. With multiple players capable of scoring in a variety of ways, the Sooners have the flexibility to exploit opponents’ weaknesses. Whether it’s Thompson’s ability to create offense or Bennett’s all-around skills, Oklahoma’s offensive diversity will be a key factor in their tournament success.

On the defensive end, the Sooners will look to continue their strong play, especially in terms of defending the perimeter. With the rise of three-point shooting in college basketball, teams that can defend the three-ball effectively are often the most dangerous in the postseason. Oklahoma has been excellent at closing out on shooters and contesting shots, and they’ll need to maintain that defensive intensity to go far in the SEC Tournament.

Another aspect that will be crucial for the Sooners in the tournament is their depth. Unlike many other top-tier teams, Oklahoma boasts a strong bench that can come in and provide a spark when needed. This depth has allowed the Sooners to remain fresh throughout the season, and it will be especially important in the high-pressure environment of tournament play.

Looking Ahead: Can the Sooners Make a Deep NCAA Tournament Run?

As the Sooners move into the top 10 of the AP Poll and prepare for the SEC Tournament, their sights are set firmly on a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. With their current ranking and strong performance throughout the season, Oklahoma has positioned itself to be a major contender for one of the top seeds in the tournament.

The Sooners will likely face stiff competition in the NCAA Tournament, with several other teams also vying for the championship. However, Oklahoma has proven that they can compete with the best, and their mix of offensive firepower and defensive toughness makes them a difficult team to beat. Whether they are facing a high-powered offense or a team with a dominant defense, the Sooners have shown that they can adapt and execute their game plan effectively.

While the Sooners are not yet the consensus favorites to win the national title, they are certainly a team that nobody will want to face in March. With the right matchups and a little bit of luck, Oklahoma could very well make a run to the Final Four and beyond.

The Oklahoma Sooners’ rise into the top 10 of the AP Poll is a testament to the program’s hard work, resilience, and talent. As they head into the SEC Tournament with a high ranking and significant momentum, the Sooners have proven that they are a legitimate national contender. With key players like Jordan Thompson, Isaiah Bennett, and Devin Moore leading the charge, Oklahoma has the tools necessary to make a deep run in both the SEC Tournament and the NCAA Tournament.

While the road ahead will not be easy, the Sooners have demonstrated that they are more than capable of competing at the highest level. As the postseason approaches, all eyes will be on Oklahoma to see just how far they can go in their quest for a national championship.