The University of Texas women’s basketball team continues to impress, securing a commanding 83-41 victory against Tarleton State on Wednesday at the Moody Center. This triumph elevated their season record to an unblemished 4-0. What made the game even more special was the annual Forty Acres Field Trip, a tradition that brought over 5,000 enthusiastic children to witness the action firsthand.
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Madison Booker: A Star Performance
Sophomore forward Madison Booker stole the show with an outstanding performance, scoring 25 points in just 24 minutes of play. She also contributed three assists, leading the Longhorns in both scoring and creating opportunities for her teammates. Booker’s offensive prowess wasn’t the only highlight—her efficiency and composure set the tone for the team early in the game.
Backing Booker’s efforts, Shay Holle tallied 14 points, while veteran guard Rori Harmon added 11 points and three steals. Kyla Oldacre, showcasing her strength in the paint, dominated the boards with 10 rebounds, coming close to a double-double with nine points.
A Dominant Start
Texas wasted no time asserting their superiority, forcing 10 turnovers in the first quarter alone and limiting Tarleton State to just 10 points. The Longhorns ended the first quarter on a high note, leading 31-10 and keeping Tarleton scoreless for over four minutes. Madison Booker’s hot hand was evident early as she racked up 20 points by halftime, propelling Texas to a commanding 30-point lead.
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Unrelenting Pressure
As the game progressed, the Longhorns displayed no signs of slowing down. Their relentless defensive pressure caused 29 turnovers, translating into 35 points—an area where Texas showcased its strategic discipline. In the paint, Texas was dominant, outscoring Tarleton State 38-16 and reinforcing their superiority in physicality and skill.
Entering the fourth quarter, Booker’s successful free throws extended Texas’ lead to 72-36, further dampening any hopes of a comeback for Tarleton. The Longhorns closed the game on a 6-0 scoring run, wrapping up a resounding 42-point victory.
Efficient Shooting and Teamwork
Texas demonstrated remarkable efficiency throughout the game, particularly from the free-throw line, where they converted 20 of 23 attempts (87%). Shay Holle was perfect from the stripe, going 6-for-6, exemplifying the team’s focus on fundamentals.
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The Longhorns also excelled in fast breaks, outpacing Tarleton 15-3 in transition points. Additionally, nine players contributed to the scoring effort, highlighting Texas’ depth and balanced offensive execution. The bench alone accounted for 22 points, reflecting the team’s overall cohesion and ability to rotate effectively.
Madison Booker: A Rising Star
Madison Booker’s performance marked the 15th time in her career she scored 20 or more points in a game. Her versatility and consistency continue to solidify her status as a key player for the Longhorns. Whether through her sharp shooting, precise passing, or leadership on the court, Booker’s influence was palpable throughout the game.
Game Highlights
- Defensive Prowess: The Longhorns forced Tarleton State into committing 29 fouls, resulting in numerous scoring opportunities.
- Ball Movement: Texas tallied 13 assists, showcasing their unselfish play.
- Paint Domination: Scoring 38 points in the paint, Texas stifled Tarleton’s interior defense while holding their opponents to just 16 points in the same area.
- Efficient Rebounding: Center Kyla Oldacre had a perfect shooting night, going 3-for-3 while grabbing 10 rebounds.
What’s Next for the Longhorns?
The Longhorns now shift their focus to the upcoming Gulf Coast Showcase, where they will face New Mexico State in Florida on Friday, November 29, at 6:30 PM CT. This tournament presents another opportunity for Texas to solidify their dominance early in the season. Fans can catch the game on the Longhorn Radio Network or watch it live through their streaming platforms.
Post-Game Insights
- Explosive Start: Texas outscored Tarleton 19-1 in the first quarter, setting the tone for the rest of the game.
- Veteran Contributions: Rori Harmon’s three steals and eight points in the opening quarter exemplified her experience and leadership.
- Free-Throw Perfection: The Longhorns capitalized on all their free throws in the first quarter, adding nine crucial points.
- Depth in Scoring: A total of nine players contributed to the scoreboard for Texas.
A Special Day for the Kids
Beyond the win, the Forty Acres Field Trip brought a unique energy to the Moody Center. The cheers of thousands of children created an unforgettable atmosphere, inspiring the players to perform at their best. Events like this highlight the Longhorns’ commitment to engaging with the community and fostering a love for basketball among the next generation.
With this decisive victory, the Texas Longhorns continue to showcase their dominance on the court. From their airtight defense to their seamless offense, every aspect of their game exudes excellence. As they prepare for tougher challenges ahead, one thing is clear: the Longhorns are a force to be reckoned with this season.
