Instant Reaction: Turnovers, missed opportunities lead to Tech’s first Big 12 loss

The No. 8 Texas Tech Red Raiders lost their first Big 12 game of the season to the No. 9 Oklahoma Sooners tonight by a score of 75-65. Turnovers were a big story in this game as the Red Raiders had 14. Zach Smith’s absence tonight may have also made an impact tonight. The Sooners played a great second half and their attack led by Trae Young was too much for Coach Beard’s defense.

Trae Young led the Sooners with 27 points and 9 assists tonight as he was back to his usual self, although he shot 7-22 for the night. The Red Raiders did a good job on him, however, Young was just too good for the Red Raiders. Christian James added 15 for the Sooners and Khadeem Lattin, not known for his scoring, had 11 points and 8 rebounds.

Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports

Keenan Evans made a tremendous effort in the loss, as he tallied 19 points, 5 rebounds, and more importantly, no turnovers. Evans was by far the best player for the Red Raiders tonight. He was also the only Red Raider in double digits tonight. Tommy Hamilton IV also had a good game as he tallied nine points and nine rebounds. Hamilton led the team in rebounds as Norense Odiase also had 9 rebounds and 3 blocks as Odiase was the best defensive player on the floor for the Red Raiders.

Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports

As mentioned earlier, the Red Raiders had too many turnovers. They had 14 and against a good team, this is ultimately what did them in. If the Red Raiders would have been able to take better care of the ball, they would have had a better chance down the stretch to win the game. Although the Red Raiders were able to out-rebound the Sooners by seven, it was not enough. The Red Raiders only had 6 assists the entire game as Keenan Evans, the point guard only had one assist.

The Red Raiders will have another tough test on Saturday when the No. 2 West Virginia Mountaineers come to town. The Red Raiders will have to take care of the ball much better if they are to have a good chance at winning this game as West Virginia, often referred to as “Press Virginia,” is a team that likes to force turnovers. This is one of the most important games for the Red Raiders as they will need a win this weekend to stay in the top-10. What are your thoughts on the game? Please leave your thoughts down in the comment section below.