Texas maintains hopes of making it to the March Madness tournament by defeating Texas A&M in two overtimes.

The rivalry between Texas and Texas A&M has always been one of the fiercest in college sports, especially when it comes to basketball. On March 10, 2025, the two programs faced off in what would become one of the most thrilling games of the season, an epic contest that saw Texas emerge victorious after two intense overtime periods. The final score of 94-89 in favor of the Longhorns didn’t just cap off an exciting basketball game—it may have also saved Texas’ hopes of making it to the 2025 NCAA Tournament.

This game, though played in the frenetic and charged atmosphere of a college rivalry, had far greater implications for both teams. Texas entered the contest needing a signature win to bolster their resume and secure a spot in March Madness, while Texas A&M was hoping to lock down its own tournament bid with a victory that would add to its already impressive season.

However, despite an incredible effort from Texas A&M, who played one of their most competitive games of the year, it was the Longhorns who came out on top, keeping their dreams of a tournament berth alive while dashing the Aggies’ hopes of achieving the same.

The High Stakes Heading Into the Game

With the regular season winding down, the pressure on both Texas and Texas A&M was palpable. For Texas, their NCAA Tournament hopes were hanging by a thread. Despite a solid season and a series of good wins, their overall record was teetering on the edge of “bubble team” status. The Longhorns needed a victory to solidify their standing with the Selection Committee and ensure their inclusion in March Madness. For head coach Rodney Terry, this was a pivotal game—one that could define his team’s postseason future.

Meanwhile, Texas A&M, led by head coach Buzz Williams, was in a more secure position but still in need of a win to strengthen their tournament case. The Aggies had been playing some of their best basketball of the season and were coming into the game with a strong record in SEC play, making it important for them to end the regular season on a high note. A win over their bitter rivals from Texas would have been a major feather in their cap, giving them momentum as they approached the conference tournament.

From the tip-off, both teams were locked in, fully aware of the stakes. A game this intense, especially in a rivalry so charged with emotion, was always going to produce fireworks, but no one could have predicted just how dramatic the final moments would be.

First Half: A Back-and-Forth Battle

The game started at a frenetic pace, with both teams trading baskets in the opening minutes. Texas came out strong, with star guard Tyrese Hunter hitting a pair of early threes, giving the Longhorns an early 9-4 lead. Hunter, who had been inconsistent at times during the season, looked to be in rhythm early, and his hot shooting set the tone for the Longhorns.

On the other side, Texas A&M didn’t flinch. The Aggies relied on their defense and a balanced offensive attack, with Wade Taylor IV driving the offense. Taylor, who had been a key player for A&M all season, showcased his versatility in the first half. Whether it was scoring in transition or hitting jump shots, Taylor seemed to be in control, keeping the Aggies in the game. A&M’s defense also stepped up, as they locked down on Texas’ shooters and forced several turnovers.

The game’s first half was a true test of both teams’ wills. Texas maintained a slight edge, with Hunter scoring 12 points, but A&M responded with strong play from their frontcourt. Julius Marble, the Aggies’ powerful forward, was a constant threat in the paint, scoring efficiently and keeping the Texas defense on its toes.

As the first half wore on, both teams battled through a series of runs. Texas A&M managed to tie the game at 28 with just under four minutes left, and it seemed that the Aggies might take the lead before halftime. But a late surge by Texas, highlighted by a clutch three-pointer from Sir’Jabari Rice, gave the Longhorns a 36-33 lead heading into the break.

Second Half: Tensions Rise as Regulation Comes to a Close

The second half of the game saw both teams ramp up the intensity even further. Texas A&M came out swinging, looking to erase their deficit early. Wade Taylor IV continued to attack the rim with confidence, and Marble remained a consistent force in the paint. The Aggies, needing a win to solidify their place in March Madness, were determined to take the game to the Longhorns, but Texas was not about to let up either.

Texas found offensive success through Hunter and forward Dillon Mitchell, who contributed with his length and athleticism. Mitchell had been a standout throughout the season with his rebounding and inside presence, but his performance in this game, particularly his ability to finish at the rim, was key in keeping Texas in control.

With just under five minutes left in regulation, Texas led by five, and it appeared as though they might hold on for the victory. However, the Aggies weren’t finished. A clutch three-pointer by A&M’s Dexter Dennis trimmed the Longhorns’ lead to two, and with just under a minute remaining, the game became a nail-biting contest of wills.

A huge defensive stop by A&M, coupled with a transition layup from Taylor, tied the game at 79 with just 10 seconds left. Texas had one final chance, but Tyrese Hunter’s potential game-winning shot rimmed out as the buzzer sounded, sending the game into overtime.

Overtime Drama: A Game for the Ages

The first overtime period was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams showing signs of exhaustion but refusing to back down. Texas A&M had the early advantage, with Marble drawing a crucial foul and converting two free throws to give the Aggies a two-point lead. But Texas responded with a clutch basket from Mitchell, followed by a free throw from Hunter that tied the game once again.

With under 30 seconds left in the first overtime, Texas had a chance to win, but a missed jumper from Hunter sent the game into a second overtime.

In the second overtime, fatigue began to take its toll. The pace slowed as both teams struggled to get clean looks at the basket. It was then that Texas’ experience and depth began to shine through. With just over a minute left in the second overtime, Texas went on a decisive 7-0 run, fueled by timely scoring from Rice and a huge offensive rebound by Mitchell that led to a key putback. A&M had no response, and the Longhorns sealed the game with a pair of free throws from Hunter to secure the 94-89 victory.

Post-Game Reactions and Impact on March Madness

The win over Texas A&M was a much-needed boost for Texas. Head coach Rodney Terry, visibly relieved and proud of his team, spoke about the heart and resilience the Longhorns showed during the game. “We knew we needed this one,” Terry said. “Our guys dug deep, especially in the second overtime. We had some tired legs, but they kept fighting. This is the kind of game that will prepare us for the grind of March Madness.”

For Texas, the victory over A&M may have just earned them a spot in the NCAA Tournament. With a solid win over a ranked team in a rivalry game, their tournament resume looks stronger, and they will likely be considered a lock for an at-large bid. Tyrese Hunter, who finished with 22 points and 6 assists, was named the game’s MVP, showing just why he’s considered one of the best players in the conference. Dillon Mitchell’s 18 points and 12 rebounds were also crucial, as his presence inside allowed Texas to control the boards and secure crucial possessions late in the game.

On the other hand, the loss was a gut punch for Texas A&M, who now faces an uphill battle to make the NCAA Tournament. While they have a strong record, their inability to close out the game against a Texas team fighting for their tournament life might leave them on the wrong side of the bubble. Head coach Buzz Williams, though disappointed, remained optimistic. “We’ve been here before,” Williams said. “We know we have the talent to compete with anyone. We’ll take this loss, learn from it, and move forward with confidence.”

Looking Ahead: The Aggies and Longhorns’ Paths to March Madness

For Texas, the win over Texas A&M is a vital step toward securing their place in March Madness. With a few more strong performances in the Big 12 Tournament, the Longhorns have the opportunity to make a deep run and carry the momentum from this victory into the national tournament.

For Texas A&M, while their path to the NCAA Tournament is uncertain, they still have the talent and determination to make a push in the SEC Tournament. If they can regroup and perform well in the coming weeks, there’s still hope that the Aggies can find their way into the field of 68.

One thing is certain: both teams will be motivated, fired up, and eager to prove themselves as the road to March Madness heats up. The intense rivalry between Texas and Texas A&M has only added another chapter to a memorable season in college basketball, and the impact of this game will resonate throughout the coming weeks.