Griffin’s Dominance: A Season for the Ages
Blake Griffin's senior season at Oklahoma was a masterclass in dominance, marked by a Big 12 record for 20-point/15-rebound games and nation-leading rebounding stats. He became Oklahoma's first Wooden Award winner, putting up numbers not seen since NBA legends like Larry Bird and Tim Duncan.
Griffin’s Dominance: A Season for the Ages
Blake Griffin’s senior year at Oklahoma wasn’t just good; it was overwhelming. While how the season ended might be fresh in people’s minds, Griffin’s individual brilliance demands a closer look. He put up monster numbers all season long, proving he was a force to be reckoned with on the basketball court.
Griffin finished the season averaging an incredible 22.7 points and 14.4 rebounds per game. This wasn’t just a few good games; he recorded an astounding 15 games where he scored at least 20 points and grabbed at least 15 rebounds. This remarkable feat set a new Big 12 Conference record, showcasing his consistent impact.
His dominance extended to leading the entire nation in rebounding. Griffin also finished second in the country in field goal percentage, proof of his efficient scoring. A significant part of his offensive power came from his 90 thunderous dunks, a highlight-reel staple throughout the season.
Griffin’s 504 total rebounds in the season were a massive number. In fact, it was the most rebounds recorded by any Division I player since the legendary Larry Bird. Bird himself grabbed 505 rebounds back in his senior year, putting Griffin in elite company with his rebounding totals.
The impact Griffin had on the boards was historic. His rebounds per game average was the highest seen since Tim Duncan, another NBA great known for his rebounding prowess. This shows Griffin wasn’t just getting rebounds; he was owning the glass like few players before him.
Beyond the boards, Griffin was a scoring machine. He achieved 30 double-doubles during the season, coming agonizingly close to the single-season record. That record stood at 31, meaning Griffin was just one shy of etching his name even further into the history books.
His outstanding performance earned him the highest individual honor: the consensus National Player of the Year award. Griffin became the first player from the University of Oklahoma to win the prestigious Wooden Award, a symbol of college basketball supremacy.
The Sooners honored Griffin by hanging his jersey number in the rafters of their arena. This special moment happened on senior night, a fitting occasion as the school celebrated another future Wooden Award winner, Buddy Hield. It marked a passing of the torch, celebrating Oklahoma’s basketball legacy.
Griffin’s season was a remarkable display of talent and determination. He dominated games on both ends of the floor, setting records and earning national acclaim. His performance set a high bar for future Oklahoma players.
This level of play signaled Griffin’s readiness for the professional ranks. His ability to control the game through scoring and rebounding made him a can’t-miss prospect. Scouts and fans alike marveled at his physical presence and skill set.
The impact of Griffin’s season continues to be felt. His record-breaking statistics and national player of the year award cemented his place in college basketball history. He proved that even when overshadowed by team results, individual brilliance can shine brightly.
The Oklahoma Sooners will remember Griffin’s tenure as a golden era. His presence on the court brought excitement and a winning mentality. His jersey now hangs as a permanent reminder of his incredible college career.
Source: OU Blake Griffin was just overwhelming 😤💪 (📍@PrincipalFinancial) (YouTube)
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