Previewing OSU’s Matchup vs. UConn in the Maui Invitiational

Oklahoma State faces their first real challenge of the season Monday evening against UConn in the Maui Invitational. Heading into the season, this game was circled on the calendar for their first measuring stick to see where the Pokes stand. But UConn’s start to the season couldn’t be any worse, with losses to Wagner and Northeastern at home to start the season.

But hey, they rebounded with a win over Loyola-Marymount to clinch their first win of the season on the road on Thursday. So they’ll be looking to build off that momentum against the Pokes in Maui.

Players to watch

Terry Larrier has been the only consistent bright spot for the Huskies in the early-going of the season. The VCU transfer is averaging 16.7 points per game and presents an interesting challenge for the Cowboys as a perimeter threat at 6-foot-8. Down low, they boast a dominant freshman in Vance Jackson and senior center Amida Brimah, the senior leader of the team.

It will be interesting to see how Oklahoma State defends Brimah, who is sure to be a bad matchup for anyone except Lucas N’Guessan. He could see an expanded role against UConn as a strategic move from Brad Underwood. The status of true freshman Alterique Gilbert, a McDonalds All-American, is unknown after suffering an injury last week.

Matchup to watch

I’ll be watching to see how Oklahoma State elects to try and defend UConn’s slew of big men, but the backcourt matchup is the one I am most intrigued with. Oklahoma State will go as Jawun Evans goes, and he’ll get a tough test this evening going against an experienced group in Rodney Purvis and Jalen Adams — two guards who have a height advantage at 6-foot-4 and 6-foot-3, respectively. Depending on how UConn attacks OSU on defense, though, he could face a favorable matchup with true freshman point guard Christian Vital. I think Evans could have the edge, but he’ll need to have a big game. With UConn’s length, it could be difficult to get Phil Forte going.

Summary

UConn’s issues early this season have come from struggles to find their offense. Rodney Purvis, who seemed to be in line to break out this season after a big NCAA tournament appearance, has left a lot to be desired averaging just 5.7 points per game. The strength in the early part of the season for OSU has been their defensive tenacity in forcing turnovers and making life difficult on opposing offenses. So far, the Huskies haven’t proven they can consistently score enough to win.

Viewing information

Time: 8 p.m.

TV: ESPNU

Streaming: WatchESPN

Predictions

• Porter: UConn 71, OSU 66
• Cox: OSU 79, UConn 69
• Thomas: OSU 92, UConn 86
• Boone: OSU 73, UConn 61
• Sam: OSU 75, UConn 72
• Caleb: OSU 89, UConn 67