On a memorable Senior Day at the Lloyd Noble Center, the #13 Oklahoma Sooners closed out their regular season with an impressive 91-84 win over #20 Alabama, cementing the perfect send-off for their seniors. The game was an emotional one for the Sooners, as they celebrated their four senior players: Taylor Robertson, Madi Williams, Ana Llanusa, and the heart and soul of the team, their coach, Jenny Baranczyk, whose leadership has transformed this squad into a national contender.
The Sooners came out firing, and it was clear from the tip-off that they were determined to make it a day to remember. Taylor Robertson, a senior guard, showed why she’s one of the most prolific three-point shooters in NCAA history. She knocked down timely shots from beyond the arc, finishing with a solid contribution to the team’s overall offensive attack.
Madi Williams, who has been a force on both ends of the court throughout her career, stepped up in crucial moments. Her combination of scoring and rebounding was pivotal, finishing with a double-double that helped the Sooners build and maintain their lead. Williams’ toughness and versatility were on full display, as she powered through Alabama’s defensive schemes with ease.
But perhaps the standout moment came from Ana Llanusa, who poured in a career-high 26 points, leading the team with her aggressive play and clutch shooting. Llanusa’s ability to stretch the floor and score in a variety of ways gave Oklahoma the offensive boost it needed to fend off Alabama’s late-game surge.
Alabama, ranked 20th, refused to go down without a fight. The Crimson Tide kept the game close throughout, relying on their star player, Brittany Davis, who finished with 23 points. Alabama’s balanced offense kept Oklahoma on its toes, but the Sooners’ ability to execute down the stretch, combined with their leadership on Senior Day, was too much for the Tide to overcome.
The game was not only a victory for the Sooners but also a testament to the growth and strength of this senior class. Each of the players celebrated their contributions, as their hard work over the years has shaped the team into one of the top contenders in the NCAA. The win gave Oklahoma much-needed momentum as they head into postseason play, where they’ll look to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
For Oklahoma, this Senior Day victory was more than just a win; it was a celebration of the dedication, passion, and success these seniors have brought to the program. It marked the culmination of years of hard work, with a future full of promise ahead.
