Texas men’s basketball has been on a roll lately, and on January 21, 2025, they continued their strong performance by securing a hard-fought 61-53 victory over No. 22 Missouri. This win marked their second Southeastern Conference (SEC) victory of the season and was particularly significant because it was their first win over Missouri since 2011. The atmosphere at the Moody Center was electric, with fans braving the cold to support the Longhorns in their clash against the Tigers.
Head coach Rodney Terry praised his team’s resilience after the game, emphasizing how they were able to hold their ground despite Missouri’s second-half surge. “They came out in the second half with a great surge, and our guys didn’t flinch and made the stops,” Terry said. “We were able to get to the final line.” The Longhorns’ defense was a key factor in their success, as they matched the Tigers’ physicality on the court, leading to a gritty, low-scoring affair.
One of the most impressive aspects of Texas’ win was their defense, which kept Missouri in check throughout the game. The Tigers, known for their three-point shooting prowess, were limited to just one three-pointer in the first half and only four by the end of the game. Texas made sure to challenge every shot, preventing easy looks and forcing Missouri to play in unfamiliar territory. The Tigers, in turn, were able to limit Texas to just four three-pointers, but the Longhorns were able to capitalize on other aspects of their game.
The first half saw Texas take control early, with Missouri trailing for the first time in four games by the end of the half. This was a testament to the Longhorns’ defensive intensity and ability to execute on offense. However, the Tigers came out strong in the second half and briefly took the lead, putting Texas in a tight spot. But instead of panicking, the Longhorns showed their poise, responding with key plays that ultimately sealed the win.
Graduate forward Kadin Shedrick played a pivotal role in Texas’ victory. After being dunked on by Missouri, Shedrick’s determination grew, and he powered his way to the basket, putting Texas back in the lead. His leadership on the court was critical, especially in the game’s final moments when he secured a key jump ball and drew a foul that allowed him to sink two crucial free throws. “We stayed poised the whole game and without panicking, we were able to win the game,” Shedrick said after the victory.
Another standout player for Texas was graduate guard Julian Larry. His defensive contributions were vital to the Longhorns’ success. Larry came up with a key steal from Missouri and quickly passed it to senior forward Arthur Kaluma, who was fouled in the process. Although Kaluma missed his second free throw, Shedrick was quick to react, jumping on the ball and ensuring that Texas maintained possession.
Offensive rebounding also played a significant role in the win, with Texas cleaning up the glass and securing 14 offensive rebounds. Kaluma, who was the team leader in rebounds, was responsible for six of those crucial boards. His presence in the paint helped Texas secure second-chance opportunities and maintain their offensive flow despite a tough Missouri defense.
The Longhorns’ ability to execute in critical moments was on full display, with key defensive stops and timely plays helping them regain the lead and hold onto it for the remainder of the game. Their composure under pressure was a testament to their growth as a team, especially as they continue to adjust to the competitive nature of SEC play.
Looking ahead, Texas is poised to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next matchup. On Saturday, January 25, 2025, the Longhorns will face off against their rivals, No. 13 Texas A&M, in a highly anticipated rematch. This game will be crucial for both teams, as they look to position themselves for success in the SEC standings.
The upcoming showdown against Texas A&M promises to be another physical battle, and Texas will need to bring their best effort if they want to extend their winning streak. With the way they’ve been playing lately, especially on the defensive end, the Longhorns have proven that they are capable of competing with some of the best teams in the conference.
For now, though, the Longhorns can take pride in their impressive win over Missouri. They’ve shown that they are not only capable of winning in tough, gritty games but that they can rise to the occasion when the pressure is on. As they continue to grow and build chemistry on both ends of the floor, they will only become a more formidable force in the SEC.
With the Texas men’s basketball team gaining confidence and momentum, the road ahead looks promising. Fans will be hoping that this victory is just the beginning of a successful stretch for the Longhorns as they continue to challenge the top teams in the conference. But first, they will look to carry their momentum into their upcoming rivalry game against Texas A&M, a contest that will surely be one to watch.