I mentioned in the “Will we go 16-0…” thread that I was concerned about the Arkansas game. More because of the unknown than what they had accomplished thus far this season.
Unlike football, basketball offers a true home court advantage. I don’t know if it’s because the crowd is so close to the players and the court, the number of team mates is much smaller in basketball, or just the quick turnaround, but I’ve always felt home court offered the ultimate equalizer in college hoops.
Nonetheless, the loss to Arkansas may have exposed a big weakness in the Sooners game. Some have mentioned the inept free throw shooting this season (I know 04 has made reference to it). The Sooners are shooting about 68% from the line. By comparison, arguably (and possibly factually) the worst free throw shooting team to reach a final four was last year’s Memphis squad shooting a pathetic 61%. The difference is that Memphis also fielded several NBA worthy players that made up for their poor charity stripe play by utilizing other talent on the floor.
No doubt the Sooners have to step up their free throw efforts if they’re going to make a deep run in March.
My bigger concern is Blake Griffin’s performance against quality opponents with size. While he still managed a double-double against the hogs, he struggled at times. With the Big XII slate upcoming, and filled with quality post players (Texas, Kansas, Baylor and even A&M…yes, A&M), I am growing more concerned about Blake’s ability to play night after night against conference opponents with talent.
I’m not ready to throw this season out, far from it. I just have had to re-adjust my expectations a little. A conference title and deep run in March are both still possible, just a little harder than I first though.