Texas Sticks to Disciplined Defense to Dismantle TCU and Move on to Final Four
The Texas Longhorns punched their ticket to the 2025 NCAA Final Four after an impressive defensive performance against the TCU Horned Frogs in a dominant 74-61 victory. Texas showcased elite discipline on defense, stifling TCU’s high-powered offense and proving why they are one of the most well-rounded teams left in the tournament.
A Defensive Masterclass from Texas
From the opening tip, Texas established its defensive presence, setting the tone for the game. The Longhorns, known for their suffocating defensive schemes under head coach Chris Beard, executed their game plan to perfection.
TCU’s normally efficient offense struggled to find open looks against Texas’ aggressive on-ball pressure and well-timed help defense. The Horned Frogs shot just 38% from the field and 25% from beyond the arc, a testament to Texas’ ability to close out on shooters and protect the paint.
The Longhorns also forced 15 turnovers, capitalizing on TCU’s mistakes to fuel their transition offense. Guard Jordan Mitchell was instrumental in leading the defensive effort, recording 3 steals and 2 blocks while consistently disrupting TCU’s ball movement.
First Half: Texas Establishes Control
The game began with both teams trading baskets, but Texas quickly asserted dominance through their defense. TCU’s star forward, Michael Carter, struggled early, missing his first four shots as Texas’ Marcus Reynolds bodied him in the post and denied him easy scoring opportunities.
Meanwhile, Texas capitalized on its stops, with guard Caleb Lawson hitting consecutive three-pointers to put the Longhorns up 18-10 at the 12-minute mark. TCU tried to respond with a mini-run, but Texas’ ability to force tough shots kept the Horned Frogs from building momentum.
By halftime, Texas held a 36-28 lead, with their defense dictating the pace. TCU had already committed 9 turnovers, a glaring issue that prevented them from sustaining offensive rhythm.
Second Half: Texas Closes the Door
TCU came out of the locker room determined to mount a comeback, but Texas continued its relentless defensive execution. Every attempted Horned Frog surge was met with a defensive stand from the Longhorns.
Jordan Mitchell played the role of defensive anchor while also delivering key baskets. His step-back three with 10 minutes remaining pushed Texas’ lead to 55-42, silencing TCU’s section of the crowd.
The Horned Frogs’ desperation led to forced shots and more turnovers. Carter, their offensive focal point, was held to just 4-of-14 shooting and had 4 turnovers as Texas double-teamed him every time he touched the ball in the post.
With under five minutes left, Texas delivered the dagger as Lawson found Reynolds for an emphatic alley-oop dunk, stretching the lead to 68-54. From that point on, the Longhorns controlled possession and knocked down their free throws to ice the game.
Key Performers
Texas Longhorns
- Jordan Mitchell: 19 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, 2 blocks
- Marcus Reynolds: 15 points, 8 rebounds, lockdown defense
- Caleb Lawson: 13 points, 4-of-6 three-point shooting
- Tyler Benson: 8 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals
TCU Horned Frogs
- Michael Carter: 12 points, 7 rebounds, 4 turnovers
- Jalen Harris: 14 points, 4 assists, 3 turnovers
- Derrick Williams: 10 points, 5 rebounds
Postgame Reactions
Chris Beard (Texas Head Coach):
“Our defense was the key. We knew if we played disciplined and forced them into tough shots, we’d give ourselves a great chance to win. I’m proud of how these guys executed on both ends of the floor. Now, it’s on to the Final Four.”
Jordan Mitchell (Texas Guard):
“We take pride in our defense. We knew coming in that if we could shut down their main scorers, we’d be in control. Everybody stepped up today.”
Jamie Dixon (TCU Head Coach):
“Texas played a great game. We just couldn’t get anything easy against their defense. They’re a tough, well-coached team, and they deserve to be moving on.”
What’s Next?
With the win, Texas advances to the Final Four, where they will face off against a red-hot Purdue team led by star big man Zach Edey. The Longhorns will need to bring the same defensive intensity to counter Purdue’s dominant interior presence.
For TCU, the loss marks the end of a remarkable season, but with several key players returning next year, the Horned Frogs will look to build on their success and make another deep run in 2026.
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