NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — In a heart-stopping finish, the No. 16 Oklahoma Sooners managed to hold off the Auburn Tigers, securing a 73-71 win that will be remembered for a long time. The game was a nail-biter from start to finish, with both teams giving it their all and leaving everything on the court.
Skylar Vann was the star of the show, matching her season high with an impressive 20 points. Her performance was instrumental in the Sooners' victory, as she consistently found ways to score and create scoring opportunities for her teammates. Vann's five points in a critical stretch of the game were particularly notable, as they helped the Sooners build a lead that they would barely manage to maintain until the end.
However, it was Payton Verhulst who stole the show in the final seconds of the game. With the score tied and only seconds left to play, Verhulst stepped up to the free throw line and calmly sank two clutch free throws. The shots gave the Sooners a 73-71 lead with just four seconds remaining, and the team was able to hold on for the win. Verhulst finished the game with 15 points, a testament to her skill and composure under pressure.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets and playing tenacious defense. The Sooners' ability to adapt and adjust their strategy as the game wore on was key to their success, as they were able to exploit weaknesses in the Auburn defense and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
The victory is a significant one for the Sooners, as it marks a major win over a tough opponent. The team will look to build on this momentum as they head into their next game, and they will be confident in their ability to compete with anyone in the conference. With players like Vann and Verhulst leading the way, the Sooners are a force to be reckoned with, and they will be a team to watch in the coming weeks.
For Auburn, the loss is a tough one to swallow. The team played well and had their chances to win, but ultimately came up just short. They will look to regroup and refocus as they head into their next game, and they will be determined to bounce back from this tough defeat.