HOUSTON — Oklahoma was dismantled 95-51 in its first trip back to the Final Four since 2002. The Wildcats shot 71 percent from the field while Buddy Hield was held to single digits in scoring for just the second time this season.
Here are three biggest reasons why the Sooners are taking an early exit:
Lack of execution
Villanova coach Jay Wright usually excels in execution and tonight was no different.
The Wildcats were dynamic from the perimeter in the first half, shooting 6-for-11 from the three-point line. Villanova encored by forcing turnovers and slashing its way to victory.
Oklahoma was not only unable to keep up with Villanova’s ultra-efficient performance, but failed to key in on opportune moments to keep in the game. The Sooners shot a dismal 32 percent from the field despite ample open looks and a 19-7 offensive rebounding advantage.
Minimal production from Buddy Hield
Buddy Hield kicked off the Final Four with a three-pointer 23 seconds into the game. Then the senior guard was nowhere to be found.
The Bahamian finished the game with nine points on 12 shots, uncharacteristic for the Sooners' prolific scorer. Hield was rendered ineffective by the tenacious Villanova defense, which repositioned the senior guard to a playmaker rather than a scorer.
Revenge factor
Villanova played with a level of intensity that can only be garnered from losing by 23 on a neutral floor in December.
Villanova executed flawlessly against Oklahoma and contained Hield while delivering a scoring clinic. While dominant in the first half, the Wildcats put the nail in the coffin with a 53-23 second-half edge. Villanova shot an unbelievable 77 percent from the field and 71 percent from behind the arc.
The Wildcats successfully closed on shooters, stripped through Oklahoma’s ball-handlers and delivered a nearly flawless performance on their way to the national championship game.
