Sports
OU Basketball Faces Uncertainty Ahead of SEC Tournament After Godwin’s Injury

NORMAL, Okla. — The University of Oklahoma basketball team is facing a pivotal moment as they prepare for the SEC Tournament amidst uncertainty surrounding center Sam Godwin‘s injury. Godwin, who suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain during a victory over Missouri, has been crucial to the Sooners’ recent success, making 20 of his last 21 shots prior to the injury.
Recovery from a sprained MCL typically takes 2-4 weeks, but head coach Porter Moser remains optimistic. “He’s doing good. Every day seems to progress,” Moser said. “We’ll see how it goes today. He was hootin’ and hollerin’ on the bench at Texas. It’s moving in the right direction.”
Godwin’s presence was felt on the bench during the Sooners’ latest win against Texas, where his leadership helped inspire the team. Senior players expressed the importance of Godwin’s energy, acknowledging that his absence would be a significant hurdle. “It helped pump us up a lot,” said a senior player. “That just shows who Sam is and how much he cares about this team.”
The Sooners, who defeated Texas 76-72, have shown resilience in recent weeks, securing important wins despite Godwin’s absence. Moser noted the collective effort of his team, emphasizing that no single player stood out. Each member contributed, showcasing the depth and determination of the squad.
In preparation for their SEC Tournament opener against 11th-seeded Georgia, which will take place late Wednesday night in Nashville, the Sooners are focused on maintaining their momentum. The potential absence of Godwin could complicate their chances, but the team has rallied with strong performances from other players.
Moser remarked on the depth of the team, noting significant contributions from bench players in recent games. “To win in this league, you’ve gotta have multiple guys producing,” he said, highlighting the importance of teamwork in overcoming the odds.
Despite the obstacles, the Sooners have secured their spot in NCAA Tournament discussions, particularly after a string of Quad 1 victories. They currently stand at a 19-12 overall record and 6-12 in the SEC, giving them hope for a successful run through the tournament.
The excitement surrounding the upcoming matchup against Georgia creates an atmosphere filled with anticipation. The Sooners are not only eager to avenge their earlier loss to Georgia in December but also to prove their growth and resilience as they aim for a higher seed in the NCAA Tournament.