OU Basketball: Former Oklahoma Guard Lands with Virginia

OU Basketball: Former Oklahoma Guard Lands with Virginia

In a significant move within the college basketball landscape, former Oklahoma Sooners guard, Tanner Groves, has announced his commitment to the University of Virginia. This shift in the dynamic of college basketball is noteworthy, not just for the talent Groves brings but for the impact it could have on both the Oklahoma Sooners and the Virginia Cavaliers as they head into the next season.

Tanner Groves, a standout performer for Oklahoma over the past few seasons, has been a reliable figure on the court, making a lasting impression with his skills, leadership, and consistency. Known for his ability to create offensive opportunities and his versatility as both a forward and a center, Groves’ transition from Oklahoma to Virginia is a move that will undoubtedly make waves in both programs.

The Journey of Tanner Groves at Oklahoma

Groves, a transfer from Eastern Washington University, came to Oklahoma in 2021 and quickly became a key player for the Sooners under head coach Porter Moser. His impressive career at Eastern Washington, where he was the Big Sky Player of the Year, was marked by his strong offensive presence, both in scoring and rebounding. Upon his arrival at Oklahoma, Groves brought that same energy and leadership to a new, more competitive stage in the Big 12.

In his time with the Sooners, Groves became known for his offensive versatility, able to stretch the floor with his shooting touch while also being a significant presence in the post. During the 2021-2022 season, Groves averaged a respectable 11.6 points per game, along with 6.5 rebounds. These stats showed his well-rounded game and the adaptability he displayed when adjusting to a higher level of competition.

However, his role expanded even further during his second season, with him becoming a crucial component of Oklahoma’s offense. He averaged 13.1 points per game and 8.2 rebounds, showing even more improvement as a leader and contributor to the Sooners’ efforts. His high basketball IQ, toughness, and ability to space the floor made him one of the most complete big men in the conference.

Though the Sooners had a somewhat tumultuous season in 2023-2024, Groves was one of the bright spots on the roster. With his solid all-around play, he was instrumental in helping Oklahoma stay competitive throughout the year, providing the team with consistency and experience.

Why Virginia?

For Tanner Groves, the decision to transfer to the University of Virginia is an exciting new chapter in his basketball career. The Virginia Cavaliers, led by head coach Tony Bennett, have long been known for their disciplined, defense-first style of play, which could complement Groves’ abilities in new and interesting ways. The program’s strong tradition of success, including a 2019 NCAA championship, makes it an appealing destination for any top-tier transfer player.

Virginia’s defense-oriented strategy would allow Groves to showcase his skills in a different setting while also providing him with an opportunity to develop further, especially on the defensive side of the ball. With his ability to stretch the floor and act as both a scorer and a rebounder, Groves can bring a unique dimension to the Cavaliers’ attack, especially as they continue to build for a national championship run.

Not only does Virginia offer Groves a fresh challenge in the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference), but the Cavaliers also provide him with a chance to further develop his game under the guidance of one of the best coaches in college basketball. Bennett is widely respected for his ability to develop players and adapt his system to the strengths of his roster, making it a promising situation for Groves to continue his basketball growth.

Additionally, Groves’ experience in high-pressure situations will benefit the Cavaliers, who often find themselves deep in the NCAA Tournament. His leadership, both on and off the court, could be the spark that Virginia needs to return to the elite ranks of college basketball. With Groves joining the team, Virginia fans are optimistic about the added depth and versatility he can bring to the table.

What It Means for Oklahoma

While Groves’ decision to transfer is a loss for the Oklahoma Sooners, it’s important to remember that his departure isn’t a reflection of a lack of success at OU. On the contrary, Groves gave everything to the program, consistently playing at a high level and contributing to the team’s success during his time there. His growth from a transfer to one of the top players on the team is a testament to his hard work and resilience.

For the Sooners, Groves’ departure leaves a significant gap in the frontcourt. With his rebounding ability and scoring versatility, Groves was a key piece of Oklahoma’s game plan. Head coach Porter Moser will now have to rely on younger players or perhaps additional transfers to fill the void left by Groves. Oklahoma’s future plans will need to involve bringing in players who can contribute right away, especially in the frontcourt.

While Groves will be missed, the Sooners are no strangers to rebuilding. Under Moser’s leadership, Oklahoma will likely look to reload quickly, especially as they continue to grow as a program in the Big 12 and potentially beyond. The coaching staff will need to focus on developing the young talent already on the roster, bringing in key recruits, and navigating the transfer portal, which has become an essential tool in modern college basketball.

Looking Ahead

For Tanner Groves, his move to Virginia marks a new beginning, filled with exciting potential for both him and his new team. His ability to impact games with his skill set and basketball intelligence should allow him to thrive in the Cavaliers’ system. With the 2025-2026 college basketball season on the horizon, Groves is poised to be one of the most impactful transfers in the nation, bringing a unique combination of experience, scoring, and leadership to Virginia.

For Oklahoma, the challenge will be adjusting to the loss of a player who was so central to their success over the last few seasons. But as Groves takes the next step in his career, both programs — Oklahoma and Virginia — are on a path that will be worth watching closely. The move from Oklahoma to Virginia is a story of growth, opportunity, and new beginnings, both for Groves and the teams he leaves and joins.