The Longhorns’ chances of making it to the Final Four in women’s basketball
As the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament progresses, the Texas Longhorns find themselves in a familiar position: a talented and ambitious team with eyes set firmly on the Final Four. The Longhorns have a storied history in women’s basketball, consistently competing at a high level in the Big 12 Conference and on the national stage. However, while the team has made deep runs in the tournament in recent years, they’ve yet to break through to the Final Four in recent seasons. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the Texas Longhorns’ chances of reaching the coveted Final Four this season by examining key factors such as team strengths, potential challenges, and the landscape of women’s college basketball.
The Longhorns’ Recent Tournament Performance
Before diving into the specifics of the current season, it’s important to understand the context of the Texas Longhorns’ recent history in the NCAA Tournament. Under head coach Vic Schaefer, who took over the program in 2020, the Longhorns have made significant strides in becoming one of the top teams in the country. Schaefer, a former Mississippi State head coach, has brought an emphasis on defensive prowess, player development, and team chemistry to Texas.
Since his arrival, Schaefer has built a foundation for sustained success. In 2021, the Longhorns advanced to the Elite Eight before falling to the eventual champions, Stanford, and in 2022, they made it to the Sweet 16. However, they were bounced in the Round of 32 in 2023, marking a disappointing finish to an otherwise strong season. Now, with an even deeper and more experienced roster, the Longhorns are once again looking to make their mark on the national stage.
Given the strength of the program and Schaefer’s pedigree, Texas has established itself as one of the top teams in women’s college basketball, consistently competing in the top 10. This foundation, coupled with the talent on the roster, has positioned Texas to make a strong push for the Final Four in 2025.
Key Players Driving Texas’ Tournament Push
One of the primary reasons the Longhorns are poised for a deep run in the tournament is the individual talent that defines this roster. Several standout players have the potential to lead Texas on a Final Four journey, and their performances throughout the season will be crucial to the team’s success.
- Rori Harmon (Guard)
Arguably the most important player on the team is Rori Harmon, a dynamic and versatile point guard who is one of the best players in women’s college basketball. Harmon has the ability to control the tempo of the game, facilitate offense, and score when needed. Her basketball IQ, combined with her elite defense, makes her a significant weapon for the Longhorns. Harmon is also a strong rebounder and is known for her leadership on the court, making her a critical piece to Texas’ hopes of making a Final Four run. Her performances in crucial games, especially against top-ranked teams, will be a deciding factor for the Longhorns. - Aaliyah Moore (Forward)
Another key contributor for the Longhorns is Aaliyah Moore, a powerful forward who has emerged as one of the team’s go-to players in both scoring and rebounding. Moore’s inside presence, combined with her ability to stretch the floor with mid-range shooting, makes her a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. In tournament play, where every possession counts, having a reliable player like Moore will be essential for Texas to advance through tough competition. - Jada Malone (Guard/Forward)
The addition of Jada Malone, a versatile guard/forward, has given Texas an extra dimension on offense and defense. Malone’s ability to shoot from beyond the arc, attack the basket, and provide solid defense gives the Longhorns a well-rounded player who can contribute in numerous ways. Her leadership and experience will be crucial in high-pressure situations during the tournament. - Taylor Jones (Center)
While the Longhorns have several guards and forwards who dominate the ball, Taylor Jones provides a strong presence in the paint. Jones has been an effective rebounder and rim protector, and her size and strength make her an asset on both ends of the court. In tournament games, having a reliable post player who can contribute both offensively and defensively is a significant advantage, and Jones will be expected to play a major role in Texas’ success.
With these key players in place, Texas has the talent necessary to compete with any team in the country. However, there are also factors beyond individual performances that will influence the Longhorns’ chances of making it to the Final Four.
Team Strengths: What Texas Brings to the Table
- Elite Defense
One of the hallmarks of Vic Schaefer’s coaching philosophy is his commitment to defense, and the Longhorns’ defense has been one of the best in the country throughout the 2025 season. Schaefer’s teams are known for their suffocating full-court pressure and ability to force turnovers, and this year’s team is no exception. Texas has consistently been one of the top teams in terms of points allowed per game, field goal percentage defense, and steals.
In tournament play, defense often proves to be the difference between a Final Four run and an early exit. Texas’ defense allows them to stifle opponents’ offensive schemes and create easy transition opportunities. With players like Harmon and Jordan Horston providing pressure on the ball, and Moore and Jones dominating the paint, Texas has the defensive capability to match up with any team.
- Depth and Balance
Another strength of the 2025 Texas team is its depth. Unlike some teams that rely heavily on one or two players, the Longhorns have a balanced attack, with multiple players capable of stepping up in critical moments. Schaefer’s rotation has allowed for fresher legs, which will be important during the intense tournament games where fatigue becomes a factor. This balance makes Texas less predictable and difficult to defend against, as different players can take on different roles depending on the matchup.
The ability to go deep into the bench while maintaining a high level of play could prove critical in a tournament setting, where teams often have to deal with foul trouble, injuries, or other adversities.
- Strong Coaching and Experience
Vic Schaefer’s experience in high-pressure environments is a major asset for the Longhorns. He has been to the Final Four with Mississippi State, and his experience as a head coach in big moments gives the Longhorns a mental edge over many of their competitors. Schaefer has a deep understanding of tournament play and how to prepare his team to handle the stress of the national spotlight.
Texas also has several upperclassmen who have tournament experience, including Harmon and Moore. This experience can be invaluable when facing high-pressure situations in close games, which are almost inevitable in the NCAA tournament.
Challenges Facing Texas on the Road to the Final Four
While the Longhorns certainly have the talent and depth to make a deep run, there are still challenges that could derail their aspirations of making it to the Final Four.
- Tough Competition in the Tournament Field
The women’s NCAA Tournament is notoriously difficult, with elite teams from across the country vying for the title. Texas will have to face formidable opponents in the early rounds and beyond, including perennial powerhouses like Stanford, South Carolina, and Louisville, all of which have been dominant in the women’s basketball landscape in recent years. Additionally, teams like UConn and Iowa State always pose a threat, with players who can take over games at any moment.
The depth of talent in the tournament means that Texas will have to be at their best to overcome these teams. Any slip-up or uncharacteristic performance could result in an early exit, which is the challenge that makes the path to the Final Four so difficult.
- Injuries and Fatigue
The tournament can be grueling, and injuries, especially to key players like Harmon or Moore, could have a devastating impact on Texas’ ability to make it through the tournament. Texas has already faced some injury setbacks this season, and the physical nature of tournament play could put additional strain on the team’s stars.
Fatigue is another factor that could affect Texas. While they have the depth to rotate players, the relentless schedule of tournament games could expose any weaknesses in terms of conditioning. The Longhorns will need to manage their minutes and energy levels carefully to avoid wear and tear as they progress through the tournament.
- Offensive Consistency
While the Longhorns excel defensively, their offense has not been as consistently efficient. At times, Texas has struggled with shooting, particularly from beyond the arc. While Harmon and Moore can create their own offense, the Longhorns need to be able to consistently execute in half-court sets and hit timely shots. Tournament games often come down to offensive execution in the final minutes, and Texas will need to improve in this area to ensure they can compete with the top teams in the field.
A Strong Contender, But With Challenges to Overcome
The Texas Longhorns have all the ingredients of a Final Four contender in the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. With a stellar defense, balanced offense, and the leadership of experienced players like Rori Harmon and Aaliyah Moore, Texas is well-equipped to make a deep run. Additionally, with Vic Schaefer at the helm, the Longhorns have a coach with the knowledge and experience to navigate the challenges of tournament play.
However, Texas will face stiff competition from other top teams, and their path to the Final Four will not be without obstacles. If the Longhorns can stay healthy, improve their offensive consistency, and maintain their defensive intensity, they have every opportunity to make it to the Final Four and compete for a national championship. The 2025 tournament will be a true test of their resolve, but Texas is certainly one of the teams to watch as the tournament progresses.
