Dean's Blog: Off To Syracuse

Oklahoma is off to New York with hopes of making a run to the Final Four.

Stars Buddy Hield and TaShawn Thomas clearing security in this photo are obviously expecting cold weather when we arrive in Syracuse in four hours for this weekend's Sweet 16 games.

The team worked out in Norman at noon. Coach Lon Kruger told me that it was a "light workout but a good one...and no one got hurt."

Rampant speculation has questioned whether power forward Ryan Spangler has possible back or leg problems injuries that have limited his jumping ability. But Kruger told me the speculation is inaccurate. "He's fine, except for the normal bumps and bruises." Kruger said. He added Spangler almost had double-digit rebound totals in Columbus a week ago, so he's fine.

We discussed the rare fact that not only did OU start the same five players this season, but the incredibly rare fact that his team started the same starting five a season ago. Only change being Thomas started every game this season and Cameron Clark started every game his senior year last season.

Photojournalist Terry Fox and I will report in from Syracuse in a few hours --Lord willin' and the creeks don't rise! - and begin live reports from New York tonight at 10  p.m. on News 9 and the News on 6 in Tulsa.

Tune in!