AUSTIN, Texas - In a fitting tribute to their seniors, the Texas Longhorns women's basketball team delivered a commanding 92-42 victory over Mississippi State on Sunday. With their final home game against Georgia set for a late start, the fourth-ranked Longhorns chose to celebrate Senior Day a bit early, and what a celebration it was.
The Longhorns (26-3, 11-3 SEC) dominated from the outset, leading 50-18 at halftime. The spotlight was on coach Vic Schaefer's five seniors, each leaving their mark on the game and the program.
Center Kyla Oldacre contributed with four points, four rebounds, two steals, and a block. Coach Schaefer humorously noted, "Kyla, you can look at her and think she's mad at the world. And yet, she could have just won a million dollars."
Teya Sidberry, a transfer guard from Boston College, was perfect from the field, scoring seven points on 3-of-3 shooting. Schaefer described her as "a happy kid," always smiling.
Missouri transfer guard Ashton Judd had an impressive outing with 11 points on 5-of-9 shooting, adding six rebounds and two steals. Schaefer praised her competitive spirit, wishing he had her for all four years.
Sarah Graves, a former walk-on guard, may not have scored in her four minutes of play, but her journey from walk-on to scholarship athlete embodies the heart of college athletics. "She's what's right about college athletics," Schaefer said.
Fifth-year point guard Rori Harmon, Texas' all-time leader in assists and steals, had four points, 11 assists, and two steals. Her teammates were visibly moved by a video tribute showcasing her accomplishments. Harmon reflected on the growth of the program, noting the surge in fan attendance and expressing gratitude for their support.
Junior All-American Madison Booker, who led Texas with 23 points, including 3-of-3 from beyond the arc, jokingly grabbed Harmon post-game, saying, "Don't leave me!"
Harmon, who received a medical waiver for a fifth year after a torn ACL, has shared many victories with Schaefer. "We've won a lot of games together," Schaefer remarked, highlighting their competitive bond.
The Longhorns are firing on all cylinders, having hit a season-high 11 three-pointers against Mississippi State. This follows their impressive 10 three-pointers in a recent win over Arkansas.
Sophomore guard Jordan Lee has found her rhythm, scoring 17 points on 6-of-10 shooting, including 5-of-8 from three-point range. Freshman guard Aaliyah Crump added 12 points, while Judd continued her strong performance with 11 points and six rebounds.
With momentum on their side, the Longhorns are poised for more success as they head into the final stretch of the season.