No. 2 Texas Longhorns Named USBWA Team Of The Week For Second-Straight Week.…
In a remarkable display of consistency and excellence, the No. 2 Texas Longhorns women’s basketball team has been honored as the U.S. Basketball Writers Association (USBWA) National Team of the Week for the second consecutive week. This accolade comes on the heels of a series of impressive victories, including triumphs over top-ranked opponents and a sustained winning streak that underscores the team’s formidable presence in collegiate basketball.
Dominance on the Court
The Longhorns’ recent performances have been nothing short of stellar. They secured significant wins against No. 5 LSU and No. 8 Kentucky, contributing to their current ten-game winning streak. Over the past two weeks, Texas has faced and defeated four ranked opponents, showcasing their resilience and competitive spirit. Senior point guard Rori Harmon aptly described this challenging period as a “blood bath,” highlighting the rigorous nature of their schedule. Despite these challenges, the Longhorns have thrived, drawing record crowds exceeding 10,500 fans and selling out the Moody Center in their last two home games. Head coach Vic Schaefer praised his team’s toughness, stating, “The game honors toughness, and this team has proven now to be pretty tough.”
Standout Performances
Central to Texas’s success are the exceptional contributions from key players. Freshman guard Tre Johnson has been a standout, leading the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in scoring with an average of 18.8 points per game. His defensive prowess complements his offensive skills, making him a dual threat on the court. In a notable game against Texas A&M, Johnson achieved a career-high 30 points, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star.
Additionally, forwards Taylor Jones and Madison Booker have been instrumental in the team’s achievements. Jones was honored as the SEC Player of the Week following consecutive 20-point games, while Booker received the Naismith Trophy Player of the Week award for her clutch performances. Their leadership and consistent play have been pivotal in guiding the Longhorns through a demanding schedule.
Overcoming Adversity
The Longhorns’ journey has not been without obstacles. The team has navigated a grueling schedule without the benefit of a bye week, a challenge that Coach Schaefer has used as motivation rather than an excuse. Despite these hurdles, Texas has maintained its momentum, currently leading the SEC standings with a 12-1 conference record and an impressive 26-2 overall tally. Their resilience is further exemplified by their ability to secure victories even when key players, such as Arthur Kaluma, are sidelined due to injuries.
Looking Ahead
As the Longhorns continue their season, they aim to build upon their success and maintain their position at the pinnacle of collegiate women’s basketball. Their next challenge awaits on Monday, February 24, with an away game against Georgia. With their current form and unwavering determination, the Texas Longhorns are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming NCAA tournament, embodying the spirit of excellence and resilience that has become synonymous with their program.
