In front of a lively crowd at the Moody Center, the Texas Longhorns delivered a commanding performance, securing a 92-42 victory over Mississippi State. The game was a celebration, with the 1986 national championship team and numerous former players in attendance, adding an extra layer of excitement to Senior Day.
Madison Booker led the charge for Texas, pouring in 23 points with remarkable efficiency, shooting 8-of-12 from the field and a perfect 3-of-3 from beyond the arc. Rori Harmon was the playmaker, dishing out 11 assists, while Breya Cunningham dominated the boards with 12 rebounds.
Jordan Lee was on fire from downtown, hitting 5-of-8 from three-point range to score 17 points. Ashton Judd and Aaliyah Crump also contributed significantly, adding 11 and 12 points, respectively.
The Longhorns set the tone early. Justice Carlton opened the scoring with a layup, and Texas quickly went on a 7-0 run.
Their defense was relentless, forcing Mississippi State into four turnovers within two minutes. Texas continued to smother the Bulldogs, holding them without a field goal for nearly six minutes, and ended the first quarter with a 24-8 lead.
In the second quarter, Teya Sidberry and Madison Booker extended the lead with back-to-back threes. The Longhorns kept the pressure on, going 4-of-5 from the field during a 7-0 run, and closed the half with a commanding 50-18 advantage. Their first-half performance was highlighted by 67% shooting from three-point land and forcing 17 turnovers.
Ashton Judd kicked off the third quarter with a steal and a score, sparking an 11-1 run. Jordan Lee continued her three-point barrage, making her fifth of the game, as Texas finished the quarter 75-31.
The final quarter saw Texas maintain their dominance, starting with a perfect 4-for-4 shooting streak that fueled another 7-0 run. Mississippi State was held scoreless from the field for nearly five minutes, sealing the Longhorns' emphatic victory.
Looking ahead, Texas will host Georgia on Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Moody Center, with the game set to be televised on SEC Network.
Postgame Highlights:
- The Longhorns extended their home winning streak to 41 games, boasting a 66-5 all-time record at the Moody Center.
- Madison Booker reached 20 or more points for the 12th time this season, marking the 40th such game in her career.
- Texas hit a season-high 11 three-pointers, recording back-to-back games with at least 10 threes for the first time in two decades.
- The team's 50-point first half and 32-point halftime lead were both season highs against conference opponents.
- Texas dominated the turnover battle, converting 28 forced turnovers into a 39-11 advantage in points off turnovers.
- The Longhorns' bench was a significant factor, contributing 40 points to the total score.
- Texas outrebounded Mississippi State 42-21, including 18 offensive boards, and shot over 50% from the field for the 12th time this season.
This performance was a testament to Texas' depth, skill, and relentless defense, setting a high bar as they prepare for their next challenge against Georgia.