Tue Feb 18 04:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Texas Longhorns Snatch Victory from LSU, Seize Control of SEC Race

**AUSTIN, TX** – In a nail-biting showdown that saw No. 3 Texas overcome a double-digit deficit, the Longhorns defeated No. 5 LSU 65-58, putting them in the driver’s seat for the SEC regular season title. The victory, which saw Texas outscore LSU 34-15 in the final two quarters, moves the Longhorns to 12-1 in conference play, a half-game ahead of South Carolina (11-1) and 1.5 games ahead of LSU (10-2).

Texas head coach Vic Schaefer described the game as feeling like an SEC championship game, highlighting the three-way battle for the title. The Longhorns’ win comes on the heels of their upset victory over South Carolina last week, ending the Gamecocks’ 57-game SEC winning streak. A tie between Texas and South Carolina would result in a shared title.

LSU, hampered by injuries to star Flau’jae Johnson (who played despite a leg injury), saw their late-game dominance falter. While LSU’s “Big 3” of Johnson, Aneesah Morrow (15 points, 20 rebounds), and Mikaylah Williams (18 points) combined for 49 points, Texas’ stifling defense in the fourth quarter held them to 18.8% shooting and forced six turnovers.

Texas’ offensive struggles (3-of-17 shooting for leading scorer Madison Booker) were overshadowed by their exceptional free-throw shooting (a perfect 21-of-21), clutch performances from Rori Harmon (10 points, 5 assists), and a dominant bench effort which outscored LSU 20-5. The Longhorns’ ability to get to the free-throw line proved crucial, especially in the third quarter where they made more free throws than field goals.

The remaining schedule favors Texas, with three relatively easier games against Georgia, Mississippi State, and Florida. South Carolina, however, faces a tougher road ahead with games against Arkansas, Vanderbilt, Ole Miss, and Kentucky. The SEC race remains incredibly tight, with the final weeks promising further exciting matchups.

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