Oklahoma Upsets Georgia in SEC Tournament First Round Thriller

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Jeremiah Fears scored 29 points to propel No. 14 seed Oklahoma to an 81-75 victory over 11th-seeded Georgia on Wednesday night during the SEC Tournament’s first round. The win marks a significant achievement for the Sooners, who have now reached 20 wins for the second consecutive season, breaking a two-year winless streak in the conference tournament.

The game, played in front of a crowd of 13,912 at Bridgestone Arena, saw Jalon Moore play a pivotal role by hitting a crucial 3-pointer that helped Oklahoma secure a 10-0 run and establish a commanding 74-64 lead with just 2:55 left in the match. Although the Bulldogs attempted to claw back, coming within four points twice in the final seconds, they were unable to close the gap.

“We knew we had to come out strong and play our game,” said Fears. “We executed well and stayed composed even when they made their runs.”

Oklahoma’s offensive performance was highlighted by Moore’s addition of 14 points and Mohamed Wague‘s impressive contributions of 12 points, nine rebounds, and four assists. Fears and Moore combined for eight of the Sooners’ 12 made 3-pointers, demonstrating the team’s shooting efficiency, especially during the first half, where they shot 52% overall.

Georgia, finishing their season at 20-12, was led by Silas Demary Jr., who scored 24 points and ended a four-game winning streak for the Bulldogs. Asa Newell contributed a notable double-double with 21 points and 17 rebounds, while teammate Blue Cain added 17 points.

The pivotal first half ended with Oklahoma holding a slight edge at 43-39, thanks in large part to the long-range shooting of Fears and Moore, who combined for six three-pointers before halftime.

The Sooners now advance to face the sixth-seeded Kentucky in the tournament’s second round on Thursday.

“This win gives us momentum heading into our next game,” added coach Porter Moser. “We hope to build on this and make a deep run.”