Texas Basketball: 3 reasons the Longhorns could dominate OK State

2. Perimeter defense

One of the well known strong suits for the Texas basketball program under the direction of Smart is the lock down defense and slowed pace his teams play at. Texas and Oklahoma State both also excel in a lot of the same areas. Both Smart and Oklahoma State head coach Mike Boynton emphasize tight defense that puts a lot of pressure on their guards to press out on the perimeter.

Texas definitely has the personnel to contend with the smaller size of the guard trio that Oklahoma State likes to run between Waters, Likekele, and Thomas Dziagwa. Coleman and Ramey forms one of the better guard pairings in the entirety of the Big 12 on both ends of the floor. The stout defensive ability of the likes of freshman Kai Jones, freshman Brock Cunningham, and junior Royce Hamm Jr. only helps their cause.

There’s more than enough foot speed and athleticism in the Longhorns forwards to be able to contend with opposing players of the same position on the perimeter. Texas can really take advantage of the slower pace and inconsistent shooting ability from outside of the Pokes to get the big win on Saturday afternoon.

Oklahoma State ranks well outside the top 250 Division I programs in the nation in both offensive rating and points scored per game. They also rank at the bottom of the Big 12 in three-point attempts and eighth in three-point shooting percentage. Since Texas ranks in the top 75 in defensive rating and points allowed per game, they could have a good day on March 7.