Oklahoma Rallies Past Alabama in Fourth Quarter

Sooners overcome late deficit to defeat No. 23 Crimson Tide

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The 10th-ranked Oklahoma Sooners overcame a late third-quarter deficit to defeat the No. 23 Alabama Crimson Tide 79-71 in Tuscaloosa. After blowing a 14-point lead in the third quarter, the Sooners regained their composure in the fourth quarter, holding Alabama to just 11 points to secure the victory.

Why it matters

This win keeps Oklahoma in the hunt for a top-4 seed and the opportunity to host the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament. The Sooners are currently on the bubble for one of those coveted hosting spots, and this road victory over a ranked opponent boosts their tournament resume.

The details

Oklahoma led by as many as 14 points in the third quarter, but Alabama battled back to take a four-point lead late in the period. The Sooners then clamped down defensively in the fourth quarter, holding the Crimson Tide to just 11 points to regain control. Aaliyah Chavez scored nine of her 15 points in the final frame, including a critical 3-pointer with under four minutes remaining to keep Alabama at bay. Raegan Beers led Oklahoma with 21 points and 9 rebounds, while Payton Verhulst added 17 points despite suffering an ankle injury that briefly sidelined her.

  • Oklahoma led by as many as 14 points in the third quarter.
  • Alabama battled back to take a four-point lead late in the third quarter.
  • Aaliyah Chavez scored nine of her 15 points in the fourth quarter.

The players

Raegan Beers

Led Oklahoma with 21 points and 9 rebounds.

Payton Verhulst

Scored 17 points for the Sooners despite suffering an ankle injury that briefly sidelined her.

Aaliyah Chavez

Scored 9 of her 15 points in the fourth quarter, including a critical 3-pointer to keep Alabama at bay.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.