See How Porter Moser, the Coach of Oklahoma, Responds to Qualifying for the NCAA Tournament

For the Oklahoma Sooners, a program steeped in basketball tradition, the journey to the NCAA Tournament is never taken for granted. Under head coach Porter Moser, the team has faced challenges but has remained resilient in its pursuit of greatness. The 2025 season marked another milestone for Moser and the Sooners, as they were able to secure their spot in the highly competitive field of the NCAA Tournament. The excitement surrounding the team’s return to the tournament was palpable, and the man at the helm, Porter Moser, was understandably proud of his team’s accomplishments.

However, as Moser would quickly tell you, this achievement wasn’t just about securing a spot—it was about the process, the work put in, and the belief that the team could overcome adversity and perform at the highest level. In his reflections, Moser’s comments were filled with gratitude, pride, and a focus on what lies ahead for his squad. He spoke candidly about the season’s ups and downs, the development of his players, and what it meant to make it back to the NCAA Tournament.

A Journey of Resilience and Hard Work

Porter Moser’s tenure as Oklahoma’s head coach began with high expectations. Known for his success at Loyola Chicago, where he led the Ramblers to a Cinderella Final Four run in 2018, Moser quickly proved his ability to build competitive teams and make deep tournament runs. At Oklahoma, he inherited a team that had endured a period of inconsistency, but he knew that he could bring stability and a winning culture back to Norman.

As the season progressed, Moser and the Sooners encountered challenges. Early on, the team was plagued by injuries and a tough schedule, which made it difficult to find consistent rhythm. At several points throughout the season, it seemed like the Sooners might fall short of tournament aspirations. Yet, Moser remained calm and focused, believing in the process and in his team’s ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.

Moser’s leadership was crucial during this time, as he kept the team grounded and motivated. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, resilience, and focusing on what they could control, which was their effort on both ends of the floor. Under his guidance, Oklahoma bounced back from setbacks, stringing together critical wins to close the season strong and earn a place in the NCAA Tournament.

In his post-selection remarks, Moser reflected on the team’s journey, acknowledging that their resilience was key to earning this opportunity. “This was a team that didn’t quit,” Moser said. “We faced adversity throughout the year, and a lot of people doubted us, but we stayed together, worked hard every day, and gave ourselves a chance to do something special.”

Development of Key Players

A hallmark of Moser’s coaching philosophy is the development of his players. Throughout the season, he worked closely with his roster, helping each player improve individually while fostering a sense of unity. This approach paid dividends as the season progressed. Several players emerged as key contributors, and their growth was integral to the team’s success.

One of the standout players under Moser’s tutelage was senior guard Jordan Goldwire. A veteran presence on the floor, Goldwire provided the leadership and steady hand that was critical for the Sooners. Moser consistently praised Goldwire for his ability to manage the game and create opportunities for his teammates. “Jordan is a coach on the floor,” Moser remarked after one of Oklahoma’s late-season victories. “He understands the game at such a high level and knows how to make everyone around him better.”

Additionally, freshman forward Jalen Hill had an impressive breakout year, becoming one of the team’s most reliable scoring options. Hill’s ability to stretch the floor and contribute defensively made him a matchup nightmare for opponents. Moser’s emphasis on developing young talent came through in Hill’s quick adaptation to the college game. “Jalen has been amazing for us,” Moser said. “He’s one of those guys who puts in the work every day. His growth has been incredible, and he’s going to be a key player for us in the tournament.”

While individual performances were critical, Moser was quick to point out that the team’s collective success was due to their unselfish play and the shared responsibility that each player took on. “We have a group of guys who are willing to sacrifice for each other. It’s not about one player; it’s about the team,” Moser explained. “When we play together and trust each other, that’s when we’re at our best.”

Oklahoma’s Defense: A Pillar of Success

A defining characteristic of Porter Moser’s coaching style is his emphasis on defense. Throughout his career, Moser has built teams that are known for their tough, disciplined, and relentless defense. At Oklahoma, this philosophy has been no different, and it’s one of the main reasons the Sooners were able to bounce back after early-season struggles.

In particular, Moser’s defensive system revolves around forcing turnovers and creating opportunities in transition. This style of play not only wears down opposing teams but also allows Oklahoma to capitalize on their athleticism and depth. As the season progressed, the Sooners’ defense became more suffocating, and they began to impose their will on opponents. Moser was pleased with how his players bought into his defensive principles. “We take a lot of pride in our defense,” Moser said. “That’s where we start every game. If we can get stops and force turnovers, we’re going to put ourselves in a good position to win.”

Moser’s defensive system isn’t just about pressuring the ball or blocking shots. It’s about building a cohesive unit that communicates well and makes life difficult for opposing offenses. The Sooners showed that defensive resilience in their late-season run, holding teams to low shooting percentages and disrupting offensive flow. “It’s a team effort on defense,” Moser noted. “We have to work together and make sure we’re all in the right positions. When we’re locked in on defense, it gives us confidence on the other end of the floor.”

Preparation for the NCAA Tournament

With Oklahoma earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament, Moser immediately turned his attention to preparing his team for the big stage. He knows that the tournament brings a different level of intensity and pressure, and his players need to be mentally and physically ready to handle the challenge. In his remarks about the tournament, Moser emphasized the importance of staying focused on the process rather than the outcome. “It’s all about focusing on the game at hand. The NCAA Tournament is a grind, and you can’t get caught up in the noise,” Moser said. “We need to stay true to who we are, continue to play the way we’ve been playing, and take it one game at a time.”

Moser also acknowledged the excitement surrounding the tournament, noting that the experience would be invaluable for his players. “This is a special time of the year,” he said. “The NCAA Tournament is what every college basketball player dreams about, and it’s a great opportunity for our guys to show what they’re capable of. We’ve earned our place, and now we’ve got to go out and prove it.”

As Oklahoma prepares for its tournament run, Moser’s leadership and steady approach will continue to guide the team. His ability to keep the players focused, motivated, and united will be crucial as they take on some of the best teams in the country. The Sooners have shown that they can compete with anyone, and Moser’s experience in high-pressure situations will be invaluable in helping them navigate the tournament.

Moser’s Legacy at Oklahoma

While the immediate goal for Oklahoma is to perform well in the NCAA Tournament, the bigger picture is clear: Porter Moser has begun to build something sustainable in Norman. His focus on developing players, instilling a strong defensive identity, and creating a winning culture has already paid off. The Sooners have returned to national prominence under Moser’s leadership, and the future looks bright for the program.

Moser’s ability to bring stability and success to Oklahoma after a period of uncertainty cannot be understated. His resilience and belief in his team have allowed the Sooners to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. As he prepares for the tournament, Moser knows that the road ahead will be challenging, but with his leadership and the determination of his players, Oklahoma is poised to make a deep run.