Mayor's Cup Means Bad Blood

The annual battle between Tulsa and Oral Roberts hits a new level on Tuesday. It's on national television, it's full of new faces and ORU is vowing payback.

Thursday, May 26th 2011, 12:02 pm

By: News On 6

Originally Published: Nov 15, 2010 6:25 PM CDT

Bobby Lewis
Oklahoma Sports Reporter

TULSA, Oklahoma – Sometimes, it’s all about perspective. Depending on what side of town you live on or what shade of blue you wear, last season’s Mayor’s Cup battle between Tulsa (0-1) and Oral Roberts (0-1) was either an epic meltdown, or brilliant comeback.

Tulsa beat ORU 57-52 after trailing by 15 points in the second half. The same two meet Tuesday for a rematch.

Oral Roberts’ players haven’t forgotten the disappointment of blowing a big lead on their home floor.

“Just seeing them celebrate on our home floor, and (to be) disappointed like that, it’s not a good feeling,” said junior forward Dominique Morrison.

The game will air on national television for the first time ever. The rivals will tip-off on ESPN at 11 a.m. from the Reynolds Center.

“We’re excited,” said ORU forward Damen Bell-Holter. “We want to play TU really bad and we want to beat them on national television.

“We need revenge.”

Tulsa has won back-to-back meetings in the series and owns a 48-26 advantage overall.

“It is great to have it on national television,” said TU head coach Doug Wojcik. “I think it’s a great opportunity for both schools.”