Further Impact of Transfers and Key Returnees

As the 2024–2025 season progressed, the Sooners’ coaching staff continued to make strategic adjustments. The offseason acquisitions became even more impactful as players adapted to their new roles within the team’s system.

Brycen Goodine’s Continued Success

Brycen Goodine’s transition to Oklahoma has proven to be one of the most significant moves of the offseason. Initially, Goodine’s arrival was seen as an upgrade to the guard position, and he lived up to the expectations. His contributions on both ends of the court have been critical to the Sooners’ strong start. Not only has Goodine been a key playmaker and scorer, but his leadership has provided the Sooners with a steady hand during tough stretches. Averaging 14.3 points per game, Goodine’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting has opened up opportunities for teammates to get involved in the offense. His efficiency from the three-point line (47.8%) has been especially noticeable, and he has been instrumental in helping the Sooners develop a faster-paced offense.

Mohamed Wague’s Rim Protection and Rebounding

Mohamed Wague has also made a significant impact in the frontcourt for Oklahoma. Known for his shot-blocking and rebounding, Wague has provided a strong defensive presence, which was a crucial need for the Sooners last season. His rebounding totals have been impressive, regularly posting double-digit boards in games against high-level competition. His rim protection has allowed the Sooners to take more risks defensively, knowing that Wague is behind them to alter or block shots. Wague’s ability to defend without fouling and his consistent energy on the glass have made him a key defensive pillar for Oklahoma.

Jadon Jones and His Versatility

Another key transfer, Jadon Jones, has proven to be a versatile contributor to the Oklahoma backcourt. Standing at 6’5″, Jones brings a combination of size and athleticism that has allowed him to excel in multiple roles. His ability to play both the point guard and shooting guard positions has made him an invaluable asset, as he can shift seamlessly between those positions depending on matchups. Jones’s defensive prowess has also stood out, often guarding the opposing team’s best perimeter player. His ability to drive to the basket and finish at the rim has given the Sooners another offensive weapon to complement their shooting threats.

Jalon Moore’s Leadership and Efficiency

Jalon Moore’s return after briefly declaring for the 2024 NBA Draft has been a significant boon for Oklahoma’s forward depth. His leadership on and off the court has been apparent, particularly during key moments in games where the Sooners needed a spark. Moore’s efficiency, especially from mid-range, has been crucial in close contests. He is averaging 10.4 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, offering consistency in the frontcourt. His experience from his time at Georgia Tech has been invaluable, and Coach Moser has leaned on him to help steady the team during tough stretches.

Oklahoma’s New Wave of Freshmen

While the transfer portal acquisitions have certainly been a focus of the offseason, Coach Moser’s recruiting efforts have brought in a promising group of freshmen who have started to make their mark.

Jeremiah Fears (Freshman, Guard)

Jeremiah Fears, who reclassified into the 2024 class, has been one of the most exciting freshmen in college basketball. Fears has been an instant star, earning multiple SEC Freshman of the Week honors and appearing on numerous preseason All-American watchlists. His athleticism, ability to score from all three levels, and court vision have impressed scouts and fans alike. As a freshman, Fears is already averaging over 15 points per game and leading the Sooners in assists, showcasing both his scoring and playmaking ability. His standout performance in a win over a top-ranked team, where he scored a career-high 30 points, has solidified his reputation as one of the top young talents in the country.

Kai Rogers (Freshman, Forward)

Kai Rogers has shown why he was such a highly regarded recruit, earning consistent minutes in the rotation. His size and versatility as a forward have allowed him to make an immediate impact in both the scoring and rebounding departments. Averaging 8.5 points and 7.2 rebounds per game, Rogers’s ability to stretch the floor with a reliable mid-range shot has been particularly useful in Coach Moser’s offense. His work ethic and defensive tenacity have also stood out, and his ability to guard multiple positions makes him an essential piece of the Sooners’ future.

Alec Blair (Freshman, Guard)

Alec Blair has adapted quickly to the college game, providing Oklahoma with a dynamic scoring threat. As a guard who can play both on the ball and off, Blair’s scoring ability has helped the Sooners on nights when other players are struggling. Standing at 6’7″, he provides a mismatch on the wing and has been excellent at creating his own shot. His ability to shoot from deep and finish around the basket has made him one of the more intriguing freshman prospects. His contributions off the bench have been key for Oklahoma, especially in high-pressure situations.

Recruiting Class Impact on Long-Term Success

Looking ahead, the future of Oklahoma men’s basketball seems extremely bright. The combination of these freshmen, along with the seasoned transfers and returnees, provides a solid foundation for sustained success. Recruiting top-tier talent has become a key focus for Coach Moser, especially as Oklahoma prepares for the challenges of competing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

With the Sooners’ success in securing highly touted prospects like Fears, Rogers, and Blair, Oklahoma is on track to continue building a competitive program that can contend at the highest level. The program’s development has the potential to rival some of the premier programs in the nation in the years to come, thanks to the strategic recruitment of both experienced transfers and promising high school talent.

The Sooners’ Outlook in the SEC

The move to the SEC has brought new challenges and opportunities for Oklahoma basketball. The strength of the conference, with teams like Kentucky, Alabama, and Arkansas, will push the Sooners to elevate their game. However, with a blend of talented upperclassmen and young stars, Oklahoma looks poised to compete. The team’s ability to adapt to different styles of play will be crucial, as the SEC is known for its physical and fast-paced games. Oklahoma’s success will likely depend on the continued development of its players, particularly the young freshmen who have already shown glimpses of their potential.

 A Season Full of Promise and Potential

The 2024–2025 offseason for Oklahoma men’s basketball set the stage for a transformative season. With impactful transfers, emerging freshmen stars, and the development of returnees, the Sooners have assembled a team that is ready to compete at the highest levels. Coach Porter Moser’s ability to blend experience with youth, along with the team’s improved depth, makes them a dangerous contender in the SEC. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how this new-look Oklahoma team performs, both in conference play and beyond, setting the foundation for future success.

As the program continues to build on its momentum, the future looks incredibly bright for Oklahoma basketball, with a blend of talent, coaching acumen, and recruiting excellence paving the way for years of competitive basketball ahead.

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