OU, OSU Facing Tough Teams in All-College Classic

Originally Published: Dec 21, 2009 12:33 AM CDT

Stephany Speck
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

OKLAHOMA CITY -- OU head coach Jeff Capel and OSU head coach Travis Ford attended the opening banquet for the All-College Classic Sunday, and both coaches are anticipating their Monday games.

The 74th All-College Classic features OU (8-3) against UTEP (6-2) and OSU (9-1) against LaSalle (7-3), both at the Ford Center. Although the Sooners and Cowboys’ competition may not be the biggest names in college basketball, they will provide a stiff test.

“We’re very excited that we’re 9-1,” Ford said. “We still have a long way to go if we’re going to compete in the Big 12.”

Ford said while he’s proud of his team, he’d like to develop the Cowboys more in areas, including rebounding and shooting from behind the arch.

Capel on the other hand, voiced his disappointment in his team after Saturday’s close game against Northern Colorado. In a post-game press conference, Capel mentioned that his team was out-played and out-coached by a very strong basketball team.

The Sooners won by only one point after played shoddy defense throughout the game. Cade Davis and Tony Crocker both had huge games to help carry OU to an 80-79 victory.

Capel’s team will face a tough UTEP team. The Sooners are 2-0 against the Miners, but Capel said they are not to be underestimated.

“They are the most talented team we’ve played so far this year. They’re the biggest team we’ve played. They’re the most athletic team we’ve played,” Capel said. “They’re a very good team. They’re well coached. They play hard and they play hungry.

“It’ll be a tremendous challenge for us.”

The Sooners tip off against the Miners at 5:30 p.m. Monday, while the Cowboys will begin play against the Explorers at 7:30 p.m.