The Texas women’s basketball team, currently ranked sixth in the nation, is set to face off against South Dakota State at the Moody Center this Sunday. This game serves as a crucial test before their Southeastern Conference opener against Oklahoma on January 2, 2025. Despite South Dakota State being unranked, they bring an impressive record of 10-2 and have reached five of the past six NCAA tournaments. The Longhorns are looking to maintain their momentum with a strong performance.

Showcasing Strength and Skill: Texas Aims for Victory Before Holiday Break

A Battle of Experience and Talent

The matchup between Texas and South Dakota State highlights a clash of experience and emerging talent. While the Jackrabbits boast a seasoned squad that has consistently made it to the NCAA tournament, Texas brings a mix of veteran leadership and fresh faces. The Longhorns, led by seniors Taylor Jones and Rori Harmon, have been instrumental in guiding the team to an 11-1 record. Both players will be honored before the game for surpassing significant career milestones, including scoring 1,500 points for Jones and 1,000 points for Harmon.Harmon, known for her playmaking abilities, ranks third all-time in assists for Texas, while Jones’ offensive prowess has earned her a place among the top scorers in UT history. The combination of these seasoned veterans with the youthful exuberance of freshmen like Jordan Lee promises an exciting and dynamic game.

Strategic Adjustments and Fresh Starts

Texas head coach Vic Schaefer has introduced a new starting lineup for this pivotal game, opting for a four-guard formation. This strategic move sees freshman Jordan Lee making her second career start alongside Rori Harmon, Shay Holle, and Madison Booker, with senior forward Taylor Jones rounding out the quintet. The absence of Aaliyah Moore from the starting lineup marks a shift in tactics, emphasizing speed and agility over height.South Dakota State, with no player taller than six feet two inches, may struggle to match up physically, but their tenacity and depth could pose challenges. The Jackrabbits have shown resilience this season, splitting games against ranked opponents Creighton and Duke. Their ability to adapt and compete against higher-ranked teams underscores the importance of Texas maintaining focus and executing their game plan effectively.

First Quarter Dominance Sets the Tone

From the opening tip, Texas established a commanding presence on both ends of the court. The Longhorns showcased their versatility and depth, with seven players contributing to the score. Jordan Lee was particularly standout, scoring 10 points and hitting two three-pointers in the first quarter alone. Her aggressive play, combined with solid defensive efforts, helped Texas build a 13-point lead by the end of the period.Defensively, Texas forced multiple turnovers and limited South Dakota State to just 29.4% shooting. The Jackrabbits struggled to find consistent scoring opportunities, with only three players contributing to the board. Brooklyn Meyer, their leading scorer, was sidelined early due to foul trouble, further hampering their offensive efforts. The Longhorns capitalized on these advantages, setting the stage for what would become a dominant performance.

Balanced Scoring and Team Effort

As the game progressed, Texas continued to demonstrate their depth and cohesion. Players like Shay Holle and Taylor Jones provided steady contributions, ensuring that the team maintained its momentum. Madison Booker, despite initially struggling to find her rhythm, delivered key assists that kept the offense flowing smoothly. The balanced scoring effort highlighted the Longhorns' ability to adapt and respond to different situations on the court. With multiple players stepping up at crucial moments, Texas exemplified the strength of their collective talent. This balance not only secured their victory but also served as a testament to the team's overall development and readiness for the challenges ahead.

Honoring Milestones and Looking Forward

Before the game, Texas took time to honor seniors Taylor Jones and Rori Harmon for their remarkable achievements. Jones' 1,500-point milestone and Harmon's entry into the 1,000-point club underscored their contributions to the program. These accolades were more than just numbers; they represented years of dedication, hard work, and leadership.As the Longhorns prepare for their upcoming conference opener, this game against South Dakota State serves as a critical test of their capabilities. The team's performance demonstrated their readiness to face tougher competition, and the honors bestowed upon Jones and Harmon added a layer of inspiration. Moving forward, Texas aims to build on this success and continue their pursuit of excellence in the coming season.