Overview: A Non-Conference Test for the Sooners
The Oklahoma Sooners (9-3) wrap up their regular-season non-conference slate with a home game against Mississippi Valley State (1-12) on Monday at 7 p.m. CT inside Lloyd Noble Center in Norman. This contest offers Oklahoma a chance to continue building momentum before conference play heats up, while the Delta Devils look to pull off an upset and gain confidence as the season progresses.
Recent Form and Series History
The Sooners enter Monday’s game riding steady momentum from a non-conference schedule that has helped define their identity early in the season. Oklahoma has shown balance on both ends of the floor, with efficient shooting, solid ball movement, and disciplined defense. The program has dominated this series so far, owning a 3-0 record against Mississippi Valley State and a 2-0 mark at home, including a convincing 82-43 win in their most recent meeting in 201X (exact year referenced in schedule data).
The current matchup presents an opportunity for Oklahoma to continue leveraging home-court advantage and to rotate through depth players, keeping main contributors fresh for the tougher Big 12 slate ahead.
Key Players to Watch
Oklahoma’s roster features a mix of seasoned leaders and promising newcomers who can unlock multiple offensive looks. Focus will likely fall on guards who can penetrate, create open shots for teammates, and knock down perimeter attempts. Inside, the center or strong forward will be tasked with protecting the rim, grabbing defensive rebounds, and finishing around the basket when opportunities arise. For Mississippi Valley State, the plan will be to compete aggressively on defense, pressure the ball, and try to disrupt Oklahoma’s rhythm with timely stops and transition scoring.
Offensive Flow
Expect Oklahoma to showcase a balanced attack: early offense that leverages ball movement, followed by timely pick-and-rolls to free shooters. Maintaining pace and minimizing turnovers will be crucial, especially against a team that may employ a more aggressive trapping defense to force mistakes. Spacing will matter, with shooters ready to capitalize on any open look after ball reversals.
Defensive Outlook
Defensively, Oklahoma will aim to contest beyond the arc while protecting the paint. If the Sooners can limit second-chance opportunities and force Mississippi Valley State into tough, contested shots, they’ll control the tempo and dictate the flow of the game. Rebounding efforts will be telling, as extra possessions can stretch a margin and give Oklahoma additional scoring opportunities.
What This Game Means for the Schedule Ahead
With non-conference play concluding, Oklahoma shifts focus to conference play, where margins tighten and consistency matters. A comfortable win against Mississippi Valley State would bolster confidence, reduce defensive lapses, and reinforce the team’s offensive identity. For Mississippi Valley State, the challenge is to translate preparation into on-court execution and use the experience as a stepping stone for the remainder of the season.
How to Watch and What to Expect
The game is scheduled for Monday at 7 p.m. CT at Lloyd Noble Center in Norman. Fans can expect a competitive matchup featuring structured offenses, disciplined defenses, and the kind of student-athlete grit that defines college basketball in December. For those following the Sooners, this is a useful benchmark before conference play ramps up and critical games begin to accumulate on the standings board.
