Sooners Come Together In Quest For NCAA Tournament Title

For many, player support is the main reason they're where they are.

"So proud of all the young men, how hard they've worked, proud of the coaches, so it's just incredible, takes or breath away," said Austin Mankin’s father Dwight.

His mother Sharon added, “We're really pulling for Lon Kruger; he's been an amazing leader for our team and for OU. It's been a while since we've seen the Final Four. We're ready to go all the way."

And for players like Khadeem Lattin, whose grandmother passed away recently, his support system is the brothers on his team.

"It's been fine because my teammates haven't allowed me to really think about it and stay concentrated,” said Lattin. “They're my team. They're like my brothers."

This veteran group is ready. It's time to shine on the platform court.

"I think the team shot it well yesterday and it's not a problem because we're all good shooters,” stated Isaiah Cousins. “Soon as we see one go in, that's when we get momentum."

OU head coach Lon Kruger added, "They like the joy they play with. They like the enthusiasm.  They've been fantastic. They give back to the community. They do a great job academically. I think all that together, the fans really appreciate being represented by this group."