With 13 seconds remaining, Madison Booker scores to help No. 7 Texas defeat Mississippi.
In a thrilling college basketball showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats, Madison Booker came through in the clutch with a game-winning score, helping No. 7 Texas secure a dramatic victory over Mississippi with only 13 seconds remaining. The game was a true test of grit, determination, and composure under pressure as both teams battled fiercely until the final buzzer. Texas, ranked in the Top 10, showed resilience throughout the game, but it was Booker’s late heroics that sealed the win in a game that will go down in Longhorns’ history.
A Game Full of Intensity
From the opening tip, it was clear that this would be no ordinary game. The atmosphere inside the Frank Erwin Center was electric, with Texas fans packed into the stands, hoping to see their team continue its strong season. The Longhorns, led by head coach Vic Schaefer, had been dominant all season long, but facing a talented and motivated Mississippi squad proved to be a different challenge.
Mississippi, while not ranked, has been a tough team throughout the season, boasting a defense that had given several higher-ranked teams trouble. They came into the game with a clear plan to disrupt Texas’ fast-paced offense and force them into tough situations. The Rebels’ defense, anchored by a physical frontcourt and aggressive perimeter pressure, caused Texas’ shooters to miss a number of open looks early in the game.
Despite the Rebels’ efforts, the Longhorns were able to find their rhythm in stretches. Rori Harmon, Texas’ floor general, was running the offense efficiently, creating opportunities for her teammates, while Aaliyah Moore and DeYona Gaston provided strong inside play. But Mississippi’s defense kept things close throughout, especially with the sharpshooting of Madison Scott and Snudda Collins, who kept the Rebels within striking distance.
The Final Moments: A Battle of Nerves
As the game neared its climax, the scoreline was tight, with both teams unable to break away. Mississippi had made a run in the second half, trimming Texas’ lead to just two points with under a minute to play. The Rebels’ defense was suffocating, forcing Texas into difficult possessions as time ticked away. With 30 seconds left, Mississippi had a chance to take the lead after a crucial turnover from Texas, but they missed a key jumper, leaving the door open for the Longhorns to respond.
Texas had the ball with 20 seconds remaining and the game tied at 67-67. Schaefer called a timeout to set up a final play. The Longhorns came out of the timeout in their half-court set, looking to find the best shot possible. With the clock winding down, it was clear that the ball would be in Madison Booker’s hands.
Booker, a sophomore guard for Texas, had been one of the team’s most consistent players all season. Known for her shooting ability and poise under pressure, she had already made a few crucial plays earlier in the game. The moment was not too big for her, and Schaefer knew that Booker had the composure to execute in the clutch.
Madison Booker’s Clutch Performance
As the Longhorns worked the ball around the perimeter, Booker started at the top of the key, calmly waiting for the right opportunity. Mississippi’s defense was focused on denying the ball to Booker, knowing that she was the primary scoring threat for Texas in this scenario. However, Booker made a quick move to shake off her defender and get to the top of the key. Aaliyah Moore set a perfect screen, freeing Booker just enough to create a look at the basket.
With 13 seconds remaining on the clock, Booker took a couple of dribbles, sized up her defender, and calmly launched a three-point shot from just beyond the arc. The ball sailed through the air in what felt like slow motion, the tension in the arena almost palpable. As the ball neared the hoop, it seemed destined for the net, and sure enough, it swished cleanly through the basket.
Texas 70, Mississippi 67.
Booker’s three-pointer gave Texas a three-point lead with only 13 seconds left on the clock. The crowd erupted into a frenzy as the Longhorns’ bench exploded in celebration. Booker had hit one of the biggest shots of the season, and it looked like Texas had done enough to secure the win.
Mississippi’s Final Attempt
With only 13 seconds remaining, Mississippi wasn’t done yet. The Rebels quickly called a timeout to set up a potential game-tying possession. Texas’ defense, which had been strong all game, would now be tasked with preventing the Rebels from getting a good look at a three-pointer.
Mississippi inbounded the ball to Snudda Collins, who had been a key contributor throughout the game. Collins attempted to drive to the basket, but Texas’ defense was ready, forcing her into a contested jump shot. Collins let the ball fly, but her shot was off the mark, and Texas grabbed the rebound with only a few seconds remaining. The Longhorns secured the victory as the final buzzer sounded.
Post-Game Reactions
The Texas Longhorns emerged victorious with a final score of 70-67, but it was clear that this was a game where both teams had given it their all. Madison Booker, with her clutch three-pointer, was rightfully the hero of the night, but the team effort throughout the game cannot be overlooked.
After the game, Schaefer praised his team’s resilience, noting that despite some struggles in the second half, they were able to execute when it mattered most. “I’m proud of the way we stuck together in those final moments,” Schaefer said. “We’ve been in tough situations like this before, and it’s a testament to our preparation and the poise of players like Madison Booker. She’s been an outstanding player for us all season, and tonight she showed why we trust her in those moments.”
Madison Booker, visibly emotional after hitting the game-winner, gave credit to her teammates for putting her in the position to succeed. “I just had to take the shot when it was my time,” Booker said in the post-game interview. “My teammates did a great job getting me open, and I knew I had to deliver for them. We’ve worked so hard all season for moments like this, and it feels amazing to help us get the win.”
Texas’ Road Ahead
This win, although hard-fought, was yet another example of Texas’ growing strength as a Top 10 team in the nation. The Longhorns showed that they have the ability to win close games, which is crucial when preparing for the intense competition that lies ahead. Madison Booker’s performance will only add to her growing reputation as one of the top players in college basketball.
Looking ahead, the Longhorns will continue to face tough opponents as they push toward the postseason. With players like Booker, Rori Harmon, and Aaliyah Moore, Texas is a team that can make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. The victory over Mississippi, particularly Booker’s clutch shot, will no doubt be a confidence booster for the team as they move forward.
As for Mississippi, the Rebels fought valiantly and had their opportunities to pull off an upset. Head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin remained optimistic despite the loss, praising her team’s resilience and effort. “We came here to compete, and we did that,” McPhee-McCuin said after the game. “We were right there at the end, and sometimes those little things make the difference. But I’m proud of how we fought.”
The Bigger Picture for Texas
This victory is just another chapter in what is shaping up to be an exciting season for Texas women’s basketball. The win against Mississippi added to the Longhorns’ impressive resume and gave them another quality victory in a competitive conference. With players like Booker stepping up in big moments, Texas has shown it has the talent and depth to contend with the best teams in the nation.
As the season progresses, the Longhorns will continue to refine their play and look to build on their success. They have the pieces in place to make a serious run in March, and with players like Madison Booker leading the way, they are a team that will be tough to beat.
In the end, Texas 70-67 Mississippi will be remembered as one of the season’s most dramatic wins, a game where the Longhorns showed their resilience and clutch ability—led by the remarkable performance of Madison Booker. As the team looks ahead, they know they have what it takes to compete at the highest level and bring home more victories as they chase a national championship.
