In an exciting and intense match on Sunday, the Texas women’s basketball team faced off against the highly-ranked South Carolina Gamecocks in the SEC Tournament Championship game. Despite a spirited effort from the Longhorns, they ended up on the losing side with a final score of 64-45. This result, while disappointing, capped off an impressive season for Texas.
Strong Start by South Carolina
The Gamecocks, who were the top seed in the tournament, came out strong right from the tip-off. They dominated the first half, establishing a lead of 33-16 by halftime. Their defense was tough and relentless, forcing Texas to take difficult shots and limiting their scoring opportunities. While Texas struggled to find their rhythm, South Carolina found success with their aggressive play inside the paint, outscoring the Longhorns 40-18.
Key Players Shine for Texas
Even in defeat, some players stood out for the Longhorns. Taylor Jones and Rori Harmon were the top scorers for Texas, combining for an impressive 28 points in the game. Their efforts were complemented by Madison Booker, who recorded her ninth career double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. The determination of these players kept Texas competitive even when the odds seemed stacked against them.
Second Half Push
The second half saw Texas come out with renewed energy and focus. The Longhorns understood the situation was critical, and they pushed hard to narrow the gap. However, South Carolina remained composed and managed to hold their ground, ultimately preventing Texas from catching up. Despite the strong push, the final score reflected the Gamecocks’ steady performance throughout the game.
Texas Longhorns’ Season Highlights
Despite their loss in the championship game, the Texas women’s basketball team finished their season with a remarkable record of 31 wins and just 3 losses. This marks the second year in a row that they have managed to achieve over 30 wins, demonstrating the strength and skill of the team under pressure. Throughout the season, the Longhorns showcased their talent by defeating 10 teams that were ranked in the Associated Press (AP) top 25, including six teams from the AP top 10.
Looking Ahead to the NCAA Tournament
With the SEC Championship now concluded, the Texas women’s basketball team will turn their attention towards the NCAA Tournament. Fans are eager to see where they will be placed when Selection Sunday arrives. The Longhorns will be hoping for a favorable seed to continue their journey in the postseason and make a deep run in the tournament.
Postgame Celebration and Future Prospects
As the players and coaches held a brief meeting after the game, their determination was evident. Coach Vic Schaefer expressed pride in his team’s achievements this season, emphasizing that hard work and teamwork brought them to this point. Looking ahead, the team will focus on building upon this successful season, including the skills and strategies that got them to the championship game. Fans and supporters are excited to see how this talented group continues to develop in the future.
| Player | Points | Rebounds |
|---|---|---|
| Taylor Jones | 14 | 5 |
| Rori Harmon | 14 | 4 |
| Madison Booker | 10 | 10 |
