Texas Longhorns Keep Season Alive with OT Win vs. No. 25 Mississippi State

In a thrilling and hard-fought contest that went down to the wire, the Texas Longhorns kept their season alive with an electrifying overtime victory over the No. 25 ranked Mississippi State Bulldogs. The game was an intense, back-and-forth battle, where both teams displayed grit, determination, and a never-give-up attitude. Ultimately, the Longhorns emerged victorious in front of a raucous home crowd, 85-82, ensuring that their hopes for postseason play remain intact as the season nears its conclusion.

This win could be a season-defining moment for Texas, who had been struggling to find consistency throughout the year. Mississippi State, ranked as one of the top teams in the country, came into the game with a lot of momentum, having been one of the toughest defensive teams in the SEC. Despite that, the Longhorns displayed resilience, responding to every challenge thrown their way. Head coach Rodney Terry’s squad was fueled by clutch performances from star players, along with key contributions from unexpected sources.

A Game of Runs

From the opening tip-off, it was clear that both teams were determined to impose their will on the game. Mississippi State’s defense, which has been one of the best in the country, was in full display, forcing Texas into several early turnovers. However, the Longhorns responded by finding a rhythm on offense, led by their leading scorer, senior guard Marcus Carr.

Carr, who had been the focal point of Texas’ offense all season, came out aggressive from the start. He was able to break down Mississippi State’s defense and create opportunities for both himself and his teammates. His ability to drive to the basket, coupled with his sharpshooting from beyond the arc, allowed the Longhorns to keep pace with Mississippi State, despite their stifling defense.

On the other hand, Mississippi State relied heavily on their defensive prowess, which is what had carried them to a Top 25 ranking. Their ability to disrupt passing lanes and challenge shots kept Texas on the ropes early in the game. The Bulldogs also showcased their ability to score quickly in transition, led by sophomore forward Tolu Smith. Smith was a dominant presence in the paint, using his size and athleticism to give Texas fits on both ends of the floor.

The first half was an emotional roller coaster, with the lead changing hands multiple times. Mississippi State would go on a 10-0 run, only for Texas to respond with a barrage of three-pointers and fast-break points of their own. The intensity was palpable, as each possession felt like a battle for survival. With each basket, the stakes seemed higher, and the crowd in Austin grew louder with every pivotal play.

By halftime, the game was neck and neck, with Mississippi State holding a slim 42-41 lead. Both teams had shown flashes of brilliance, but it was clear that whoever could execute their game plan in the second half would come away victorious.

Second Half: The Longhorns Battle Back

The second half began much like the first, with both teams playing aggressively on both ends of the floor. Mississippi State’s defense remained tough, but the Longhorns found ways to break through. Marcus Carr continued to be the catalyst, scoring in bunches and setting up his teammates for easy looks.

One of the key moments of the second half came when Texas freshman Dillon Mitchell stepped up and hit a critical three-pointer, cutting Mississippi State’s lead to just two points. Mitchell’s shot gave the Longhorns the spark they needed, and the crowd was energized as Texas started to gain some momentum. Mitchell, who had been somewhat inconsistent throughout the season, showcased the potential that had many calling him one of the future stars of the program.

However, Mississippi State didn’t back down. The Bulldogs relied on their physicality to wear down Texas. Smith and guard Shakeel Moore continued to make big plays, whether it was on the boards or driving to the basket. Moore’s fast breaks were a constant thorn in the Longhorns’ side, as he displayed the ability to finish in transition and create easy opportunities for his teammates.

With just under five minutes left in regulation, Mississippi State seemed poised to secure the win, holding a five-point lead. The Longhorns, though, weren’t ready to go quietly into the night. In a crucial moment, Texas head coach Rodney Terry called for a timeout, giving his team a chance to regroup.

During the timeout, Terry focused on keeping his players composed and reminding them that they had been in tough situations before. His message was simple: “Stay calm, stay focused, and play our game.” His leadership proved invaluable, as the Longhorns came out of the timeout with renewed determination.

Clutch Performances and Regulation Drama

The final minutes of regulation were a microcosm of the entire game—intense, unpredictable, and filled with drama. Texas used a combination of strong defensive possessions and timely shooting to erase the five-point deficit. The Longhorns’ defense tightened up, with senior forward Timmy Allen and Mitchell providing crucial stops on the Bulldogs’ offense. On the offensive side, Carr hit a clutch jumper with just over a minute left to tie the game at 76-76.

Mississippi State had a chance to retake the lead in the final possession, but Texas’ defense was up to the task. The Bulldogs’ attempt at a game-winning shot was contested heavily, and the ball clanged off the rim, sending the game into overtime.

As the teams lined up for the extra period, the tension in the arena was palpable. The outcome of this game would have significant implications for both teams, with Texas hoping to keep their NCAA tournament hopes alive and Mississippi State looking to solidify their standing in the rankings.

Overtime: The Longhorns Prevail

In overtime, the Longhorns showed what they were made of. With the game tied at 82-82, Carr took over in the final minute. He hit a crucial three-pointer to give Texas a three-point lead, and the Longhorns’ defense held strong in the closing seconds. Mississippi State had a final opportunity to send the game to double overtime, but Smith’s shot in the paint was blocked by Allen, securing the win for Texas.

The 85-82 victory was a complete team effort for the Longhorns. Carr finished with a game-high 27 points, including several crucial baskets in the closing minutes and overtime. Allen added 18 points and 9 rebounds, contributing significantly on both ends of the floor. Mitchell’s three-pointer in the second half proved to be a pivotal moment in the game, and his energy provided a much-needed boost to the team.

For Mississippi State, Tolu Smith had a strong performance, finishing with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Shakeel Moore chipped in with 16 points. Despite their valiant effort, the Bulldogs couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities in overtime, and Texas walked away with the win.

Texas’ Season Is Far from Over

With the victory, the Texas Longhorns kept their season alive, improving their record to 18-13 on the season. The win was a much-needed boost for the Longhorns, who have struggled with consistency but have shown flashes of brilliance throughout the year. This victory over a ranked opponent gives them a significant boost to their NCAA tournament resume, but their journey is far from over.

The Longhorns’ next challenge will come in their final regular-season games, where they will look to continue their momentum and secure a strong position heading into the postseason. With players like Carr, Allen, and Mitchell stepping up, Texas has the potential to make a deep run in March.

Head coach Rodney Terry, who has been under pressure throughout the season, will now have the opportunity to guide his team through the final stretch, with a sense of renewed confidence and hope. “This win was big for us,” Terry said after the game. “We showed a lot of heart tonight, and that’s what this team is about. We’ll enjoy this one, but we know we’ve got more work to do.”

The Texas Longhorns’ thrilling overtime win against No. 25 Mississippi State is one of the most dramatic moments of the season. With their backs against the wall, the Longhorns delivered when it mattered most, securing a crucial victory that keeps their postseason hopes alive. As the team looks ahead, they’ll need to build on this momentum and continue to fight for every win, knowing that their journey is far from over.

The road ahead may be tough, but after this monumental win, the Longhorns have proven that they can compete with the best and come out on top when it counts.