Where are the Longhorns following their thrilling matchup with LSU in women’s basketball at Texas?

The Texas Longhorns women’s basketball team has had a rollercoaster season in 2025, with high expectations and big challenges. A thrilling matchup against LSU, a program also among the nation’s elite, has put the Longhorns in the spotlight. But where exactly do they stand following this high-profile game, and how does it shape the trajectory of their season?

Texas, under the leadership of head coach Vic Schaefer, has been on a mission to prove they are not just contenders in the Big 12, but also in the national championship conversation. With a roster full of talent, including standout players like Rori Harmon, Taylor Jones, and others, the team has often been viewed as one of the most formidable squads in college women’s basketball. However, like any top-tier program, the team’s performance in big games, particularly in matchups with other top-10 programs, often defines their positioning both in conference play and on the national scene.

The game against LSU in February was one such defining moment. LSU, fresh off a national title run in 2024, entered the game with high expectations, led by their star player Angel Reese. The matchup between these two programs—both of whom had national title aspirations—was more than just a regular-season game. It had implications for seeding in the NCAA tournament and for the overall narrative of the Longhorns’ season.

The Thriller Against LSU: A Battle of the Titans

The LSU Tigers came into the game as one of the favorites to repeat their national championship run. With Angel Reese, who had been one of the best players in the country, and a veteran roster, LSU was a well-oiled machine. Texas, however, was not intimidated. In what turned out to be a back-and-forth, high-stakes battle, both teams fought tooth and nail for every point.

At Moody Center in Austin, the game became one of those classics that fans will remember for years. The energy in the building was electric, and from the first tip, it was clear this would be a matchup that lived up to its billing.

Texas’ defense, known for its ability to lock down opponents, was tested repeatedly by LSU’s explosive offense. Rori Harmon, Texas’ floor general, had one of her best performances of the season, matching Reese’s intensity and proving she could go toe-to-toe with one of the nation’s top players. Her ability to distribute the ball while also contributing as a scorer allowed Texas to stay competitive in a game that was physical and intense from start to finish.

On the other end, LSU’s Angel Reese showed why she was one of the most dominant forces in women’s basketball. Reese’s relentless pursuit on the boards and ability to score in the paint gave LSU an early lead, but the Longhorns were not easily shaken. Taylor Jones provided some crucial interior scoring for Texas, showing that the team had the physicality to match LSU’s frontcourt prowess.

The game came down to a final possession, with Texas holding a narrow lead in the closing seconds. A dramatic, last-second shot from LSU’s star player, Reese, rimmed out, giving the Longhorns a thrilling victory in front of their home crowd. The win, 71-69, was emotional for the team and a testament to their resilience and determination.

What Does This Victory Mean for Texas?

This win against LSU was crucial for several reasons. First, it reaffirmed that Texas has what it takes to compete with the very best teams in the country, especially in high-pressure situations. With the NCAA Tournament looming, the Longhorns knew they needed signature wins to solidify their position as one of the nation’s elite programs.

A victory against LSU not only boosts their national ranking but also sends a message to the rest of the country: Texas is for real. Schaefer’s squad proved they could handle the pressure of a close game against a team that had everything to play for. The Longhorns’ defense was key, as it has been all season, and their ability to execute late in games has been a hallmark of Schaefer’s coaching style. The win also helped Texas climb the rankings, firmly placing them among the top 5 teams in the country and increasing their chances for a high seed in the NCAA tournament.

But the win over LSU wasn’t just about one game—it also showed how far the team has come under Schaefer’s leadership. In the past, Texas had struggled to make deep runs in the NCAA tournament, often falling short when faced with the country’s top teams. This victory over LSU is a sign that the Longhorns are more prepared than ever to contend for a national championship.

The Longhorns’ Key Strengths Moving Forward

Following their dramatic win over LSU, the Longhorns have several key strengths that will help them as they move toward the postseason.

1. Defense: The Hallmark of Schaefer’s Coaching

Under Vic Schaefer, Texas has developed one of the most suffocating defenses in the country. Their ability to disrupt passing lanes, pressure ball handlers, and force turnovers has been a key to their success all season long. Against LSU, Texas showed that even the most high-powered offenses are not immune to their defensive pressure.

In the NCAA Tournament, where games often come down to matchups and stamina, Texas’ defense could be the deciding factor in their championship pursuit. With players like Aaliyah Moore and Taylor Jones anchoring the interior defense, and guards like Rori Harmon and Kyndall Hunter locking down opposing ball handlers, Texas is capable of slowing down any team in the country.

2. Leadership and Big-Game Performances

Rori Harmon has stepped into the role of floor general for the Longhorns and has been instrumental in their success this season. Harmon’s leadership, ability to distribute the ball, and knack for making clutch plays were on full display against LSU. Her 18 points, 8 assists, and lockdown defense against Reese were critical to Texas’ success.

Harmon’s experience and ability to stay calm in high-pressure situations make her an invaluable asset for Texas, especially in March Madness. Her ability to control the tempo and create opportunities for her teammates will be key for the Longhorns as they head into the postseason.

3. Depth and Versatility

Another advantage the Longhorns have moving forward is their depth and versatility. While many teams rely heavily on one or two stars, Texas has a roster that is capable of contributing at all positions. Players like Aaliyah Moore, Taylor Jones, and Rhiannon McKinney can step up in different situations, providing both scoring and defense. Schaefer’s ability to rotate players in and out of the lineup keeps the team fresh and allows them to adapt to different matchups.

This depth will be crucial in the NCAA Tournament, where games often come thick and fast. The ability to keep players fresh, while still maintaining a high level of play, will give Texas a significant edge over teams that rely too heavily on their starting five.

Challenges on the Horizon: Big 12 and Beyond

Despite the win over LSU, the Longhorns cannot afford to rest on their laurels. The Big 12 remains one of the toughest conferences in women’s basketball, and Texas will face more challenges on the road to a national championship.

Teams like Baylor, Oklahoma, and Iowa State will not go down easily, and Texas will need to stay focused as they close out their regular season. In particular, road games in conference play will test the Longhorns’ resilience and ability to perform under pressure.

Additionally, the NCAA Tournament is an entirely different beast. Teams from across the country, including those from the Pac-12, SEC, and ACC, will provide formidable challenges. Texas will need to continue to improve on its consistency, particularly on the offensive side, to make a deep run.

Where Do the Longhorns Stand Now?

Following their thrilling victory over LSU, the Longhorns have proven they are more than just a top 10 team—they are serious national championship contenders. Their victory, combined with their defensive prowess, leadership, and depth, positions them as one of the teams to watch as March Madness approaches.

At the same time, the road ahead is filled with challenges, and the Longhorns will need to maintain their focus and execution to make it all the way. But if they continue to play with the same intensity, poise, and confidence that they showed against LSU, the Longhorns could very well be hoisting the national championship trophy come April.

The future is bright for Texas women’s basketball, and following the LSU game, the Longhorns have firmly placed themselves in the conversation as one of the top teams in the country. Whether they can finish the season as national champions remains to be seen, but their thrilling win over LSU has certainly given them the momentum they need to make a strong push toward glory.