No. 7 LSU faces No. 13 Oklahoma following Johnson’s 22-point game

The 2025 college basketball season has already proven to be a thrilling one, and the matchup between No. 7 LSU and No. 13 Oklahoma promises to be one of the most anticipated games of the year. Both teams have been making waves in their respective conferences, with standout performances and dramatic victories that have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. But it’s the recent stellar performance by LSU’s KJ Johnson, who dropped a game-high 22 points in the team’s previous win, that has fans and analysts buzzing about what’s to come in this exciting showdown.

In what will surely be a high-energy, high-stakes game, LSU’s momentum following Johnson’s explosive performance meets Oklahoma’s strong and balanced squad. With both teams looking to solidify their standing in the national rankings, this game could be pivotal for both programs as they gear up for the heart of the season.

The Rise of KJ Johnson: A New Star Emerges

LSU’s recent success has been powered by several key contributors, but the spotlight has been on sophomore guard KJ Johnson. Johnson’s 22-point game, which helped propel LSU to a victory over a tough conference opponent, was one of the most memorable performances of his young career. Not only did he score efficiently from the field, but his defensive presence and leadership were also evident throughout the game.

Johnson has been a dynamic player for LSU since his arrival on campus, but his growth this season has been especially notable. Coming out of high school, he was regarded as one of the top guards in the nation, with a unique blend of scoring ability, ball-handling, and athleticism. His performance against No. 15 Alabama was a prime example of how far he has come, as he displayed an ability to control the tempo of the game and score in a variety of ways.

But it wasn’t just Johnson’s ability to score that was impressive—it was his poise in clutch moments that stood out the most. With the game on the line, he was able to step up, hit key shots, and create opportunities for his teammates. His 22 points came on 9-of-14 shooting from the field, including several key three-pointers that allowed LSU to maintain control during critical stretches.

This game was a clear indication that Johnson is ready to take on a bigger role as the leader of LSU’s offense. With his confidence continuing to build, Johnson will be a key player to watch in this upcoming contest against Oklahoma. If he can replicate or even build upon that performance, LSU could have a strong chance of coming out on top.

LSU’s Strengths: Defense, Depth, and Balanced Scoring

While KJ Johnson’s scoring is certainly a key factor in LSU’s success, the Tigers have several other elements of their game that make them a dangerous opponent for any team. Under head coach Matt McMahon, LSU has developed a reputation for being a tough, defensive-minded team that can match up well with a variety of offensive systems.

One of the most significant strengths for LSU this season has been its defense. The Tigers are among the best in the nation in terms of defensive efficiency, thanks to a combination of athleticism, length, and disciplined rotations. LSU excels at closing out on shooters, contesting shots at the rim, and forcing turnovers. This defensive tenacity has allowed them to remain competitive even in games where their offense has struggled at times.

Moreover, LSU’s depth has been another key factor in their success. While Johnson is undoubtedly one of the focal points of the offense, the Tigers boast several other capable scorers. Adam Miller, the senior guard, is a dynamic playmaker who can score both inside and outside, and his experience brings a level of stability to the team. Tari Eason, who has blossomed into one of the most versatile players in the SEC, provides a scoring and rebounding presence in the paint. The Tigers are not reliant on just one or two players; their depth allows them to be effective in various ways.

This depth has been crucial for LSU in their big wins, allowing them to withstand prolonged periods of pressure or when individual players may not be having their best games. Against Oklahoma, LSU’s depth will be tested, but if they can continue to share the scoring load and rely on their defense, they’ll have a good chance of coming out victorious.

Oklahoma’s Strengths: Versatility and Balance

On the other side of the court, Oklahoma has been enjoying an impressive season under head coach Porter Moser, who has guided the program to consistent success with a focus on balanced basketball. The Sooners are known for their versatile offense, which includes a mix of up-tempo play and efficient half-court sets. Oklahoma has several key players who have made significant impacts this season, and their well-rounded game makes them a tough matchup for anyone.

At the forefront of Oklahoma’s offense is Grant Sherfield, a dynamic guard who has been the heartbeat of the Sooners’ attack. Sherfield has been a force both as a scorer and a facilitator, making plays for himself and his teammates. His ability to score from all areas of the floor, combined with his exceptional court vision, makes him one of the most difficult players to defend in the Big 12. Against LSU, Sherfield will likely be tasked with creating opportunities for Oklahoma’s offense, and he will need to be on top of his game in order to keep pace with LSU’s athletic defense.

Beyond Sherfield, Oklahoma boasts a talented supporting cast, including forward Jalen Hill, who is capable of stretching the floor with his shooting while also providing an inside presence. Hill’s ability to space the floor and defend multiple positions will be vital against LSU’s aggressive defense. Oklahoma’s frontcourt, led by Hill, will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game and ensuring that LSU doesn’t dominate the paint on either end.

The Sooners are also known for their team-first mentality, with multiple players capable of stepping up on any given night. Whether it’s hitting clutch shots, crashing the boards, or locking down defensively, Oklahoma has proven that it can win in different ways. That versatility makes them an incredibly tough opponent for LSU, especially with both teams coming into the game with momentum.

Key Matchups to Watch

KJ Johnson vs. Grant Sherfield
One of the most intriguing individual matchups in this game will be the battle between LSU’s KJ Johnson and Oklahoma’s Grant Sherfield. Both players are capable of taking over a game and have shown that they can score in bunches. Johnson will likely draw the defensive assignment on Sherfield, and this matchup will play a huge role in determining the outcome of the game. Johnson’s length and athleticism could make things difficult for Sherfield, but Sherfield’s ability to create offense for himself and others will test Johnson’s defensive abilities.

LSU’s Defense vs. Oklahoma’s Offensive Versatility
LSU’s defense has been one of the best in the nation, and they will face a serious challenge against Oklahoma’s offensive firepower. The Tigers will need to contain Sherfield, while also defending Hill and others in the Sooners’ balanced attack. LSU’s ability to limit Oklahoma’s offensive rhythm—particularly in transition—will be crucial. If the Tigers can get stops and push the ball up the court, they can use their depth and athleticism to wear down Oklahoma.

LSU’s Depth vs. Oklahoma’s Star Power
While Oklahoma relies heavily on a few key players like Sherfield and Hill, LSU’s strength lies in its depth. The Tigers have multiple players who can contribute offensively, and this balance has been one of their main advantages. If LSU can continue to distribute the scoring across several players, it could make it difficult for Oklahoma to match up defensively. On the flip side, if Oklahoma can get star performances from Sherfield and Hill, they could overwhelm LSU’s defense.

How LSU Can Win

For LSU to come out on top, they’ll need to play their brand of basketball—defend at a high level, push the tempo, and get contributions from multiple players. KJ Johnson will likely be the focal point of the offense, but LSU will need Miller, Eason, and others to contribute offensively. Additionally, their defense will need to neutralize Oklahoma’s stars and limit their offensive flow. If the Tigers can limit Sherfield’s impact and make it difficult for Oklahoma to find open shots, they’ll have a strong chance to win.

How Oklahoma Can Win

Oklahoma’s key to victory lies in their ability to execute on offense, particularly through Sherfield and Hill. If they can hit shots from the perimeter and establish a strong inside presence, they’ll be able to control the pace of the game. Defensively, they’ll need to make life difficult for KJ Johnson, limiting his scoring opportunities and forcing other LSU players to step up. If Oklahoma can get the ball moving and take advantage of LSU’s defensive weaknesses, they’ll have a good shot at winning.