1995 Manhattan Shocks 4th Seeded Oklahoma in NCAA Tournament

Name: 1995 Manhattan Shocks 4th Seeded Oklahoma in NCAA Tournament
Start: 1995-03-16
Location: Unspecified

The Unforgettable Upset: Manhattan vs. Oklahoma

The 1995 NCAA Tournament is well remembered for its thrilling moments, but one game stands out as an absolute shocker. On March 17, 1995, the Manhattan Jaspers faced off against the highly favored Oklahoma Sooners in an opening round game of the tournament. Seeded 13th, Manhattan was expected to be an underdog, yet they delivered a stunning performance that would echo in basketball history.

Manhattan’s Journey to the Tournament

Leading up to the tournament, the Manhattan Jaspers had an impressive season, showcasing resilience and teamwork. The Jaspers, coached by Steve Lappas, entered the NCAA Tournament with a record of 21-7, determined to prove themselves against higher-seeded teams. Their tenacity was palpable and they were ready to make history.

Oklahoma’s Dominance

On the other side, the Oklahoma Sooners, coached by Lon Kruger, were the fourth seed in the East Region and came into the game with aspirations of a deep tournament run. With a deep roster that boasted several skilled players, they were seen as a near-certain victory over the lower-seeded Jaspers.

A Game for the Ages

The game opened with high energy, and Manhattan quickly established their presence on the court. Their strategy focused on tight defense and a fast-paced offense. As the game unfolded, it became clear that they were not intimidated by Oklahoma’s reputation. A combination of sharpshooting and relentless rebounding kept Manhattan in the lead.

Key Players of Manhattan

Leading the Jaspers was Richie Adubato, who scored crucial points throughout the game. His confidence and skill in clutch moments were vital for the team. Additionally, Josef “Joey” Wooten made significant contributions, not just in scoring but also in his ability to facilitate plays that baffled the Sooners’ defense.

Oklahoma’s Struggles

Despite having notable players like Tim McCormick and Drew Lavender, the Sooners struggled to adapt to Manhattan's aggressive style of play. The Jaspers’ unyielding defense disrupted Oklahoma’s rhythm, and they found themselves battling from behind for much of the game. The crowd was electrified as Manhattan maintained their lead, ultimately sealing the game with a final score of 77-67.

The Aftermath of the Upset

The defeat shocked analysts and fans alike, marking one of the biggest upsets in NCAA Tournament history. For Manhattan, it was a historic win that elevated the program and left a lasting legacy. They had not only succeeded in defeating a higher seed but showcased the unpredictable nature of March Madness.

Impact on Manhattan's Basketball Program

This monumental victory propelled the Manhattan Jaspers into the national spotlight, inspiring future generations of players. Although the Jaspers did not advance far beyond this game, their upset over Oklahoma remains a defining moment in their basketball history.

Oklahoma’s Response

Following the defeat, the Oklahoma Sooners regrouped and focused on rebuilding for the next season. The loss served as a lesson on the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of unexpected challenges.

Fun Fact

Manhattan’s Historic Performance

Interestingly, the Jaspers' victory not only shocked fans but was also a turning point in the bracket, as it showcased the unpredictable nature of the tournament. This game is often referenced in discussions about the magic of March Madness.