Oklahoma and Marquette square off in Chicago on November 28, 2025 in a non-conference matchup that features two teams looking to improve their records. The Sooners (4-2) bring momentum after consecutive wins, while the Golden Eagles (4-3) lean on their leading scorer. The Bad Boy Mowers Series game tips off at 2 p.m. ET at Credit Union 1 Arena with Oklahoma favored by 2.5 points.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Oklahoma is 4-2 after winning back-to-back games, including a 72-53 victory over Alcorn State on November 25.
- Marquette enters at 4-3, with guard Chase Ross averaging 20.9 points and 4.3 assists per game.
- Head coach Shaka Smart holds a 7-5 record against Oklahoma from his time at Texas (2015-2021).
- Nijel Pack leads the Sooners averaging 18.5 points with 48.8% field goal shooting this season.
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Oklahoma has found its form after a tough loss to Nebraska back on November 15. Coach Porter Moser challenged his team defensively, and the Sooners responded with consecutive victories. The 72-53 win over Alcorn State showcased improved defensive intensity on one of their brightest nights.
The return of Jadon Jones from injury provides Oklahoma additional scoring depth. Xzayvier Brown contributes 16.0 points, 3.2 assists and 1.8 steals per game. Tae Davis and Derrion Reid also score in double figures, giving the Sooners multiple offensive weapons.
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Chase Ross is carrying the Golden Eagles’ offense with an impressive 20.9 points and 4.3 assists per game. Recently, he exploded for 27 points in an 85-71 victory over Central Michigan, shooting 7-of-8 from the field and hitting 12 free throws with seven assists.
No other Marquette player averages more than 10.6 points per game, putting significant responsibility on Ross’s shoulders. Shaka Smart acknowledged this dynamic, noting the team must develop more scoring options alongside their talented lead guard.
Familiar Opponents with Coaching History
| Stat | Oklahoma | Marquette |
| Record | 4-2 | 4-3 |
| Leading Scorer | Nijel Pack (18.5 PPG) | Chase Ross (20.9 PPG) |
| Field Goal % | 47.1% (9th in SEC) | TBA |
| Head Coach Experience | Porter Moser (Loyola Chicago decade) | Shaka Smart (5th season) |
Shaka Smart brings valuable experience against Oklahoma, holding a 7-5 head-to-head record against the Sooners during his six seasons at Texas. Porter Moser spent a decade at Loyola Chicago, leading the Ramblers to two NCAA Tournament appearances and one Final Four appearance.
This matchup marks Marquette’s second game played in Chicago this season. The Golden Eagles lost to Indiana 100-77 on November 9 at the same venue, looking to rebound with Friday’s contest.
Defensive Intensity Will Be Key Factor in Windy City Clash
Oklahoma must maintain the defensive improvements that sparked their recent victory streak. Coach Moser emphasized the need for better defense after the Nebraska loss, and his team delivered with strong execution on that end against Alcorn State.
Marquette will depend on Chase Ross‘s scoring punch while Shaka Smart works to develop consistency beyond his star guard. The Golden Eagles need complementary scoring to challenge Oklahoma’s full roster of defensive options.
Which Team Will Seize Control in the Battle of Non-Conference Momentum?
This game features two teams trending in different directions entering November’s final game. Oklahoma brings confidence from consecutive wins and improved defensive schemes. Marquette counters with a star-level scorer in Chase Ross coming off an explosive performance.
The spread favors Oklahoma by 2.5 points, reflecting the Sooners’ recent success and defensive strides. Marquette will look to upset the favorites and improve to 5-3 before heading into conference play.
Sources
- ESPN College Basketball – Live scoring and game coverage
- CBS Sports – Team analysis and preview coverage
- FOX Sports – Player stats and betting information
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.