Texas downs Kansas State 75-64

The Texas Longhorns went into the half down 40-27, and it looked as if Kansas State was going to run away with the game.  Kansas State’s defense was doing quite the job.  They held Texas without a field goal for the final 8:56 of the first half, and their offense had put the Longhorns in foul trouble.  Texas was down, but not out.  No way would the Longhorns would not allow their NCAA tournament hopes to slip away that easily.  They battled back and dominated the 2nd half, outscoring the Wildcats 48-24.  The 2nd half charge was led by Alexi Wangmene, who recorded his first career double double.  Wangmene finished with 15 points, 13 rebounds and 2 blocks.  The Longhorns also got strong performances from J’Covan Brown, Myck Kabongo, Sheldon McClellan, Julien Lewis and Jonathan Holmes in the 2nd half.  Lewis’ defense on Kansas State point guard Angel Rodriguez was key in the Longhorn comeback.  Brown, Holmes and McClellan provided timely baskets during the big 2nd half run.  The win puts Texas in a tie with Kansas State for 5th place in the conference.  The win also gives Texas another win over a top 50 opponent, making the Longhorns tournament resume a little stronger.

What Lies Ahead for Texas:

A trip to Norman to take on the Oklahoma Sooners. Texas should win this one of paper, but Norman has been a difficult place to play for big 12 teams this year. The Longhorns need to go into the game prepared, and not take Oklahoma lightly.

Keys To Successs for Texas:

– Limit Pledger: OU has other good players, but as he goes they go. Julien Lewis has emerged as one of the top on ball defenders in the big 12.  I anticipate he’ll get the assignment.  He will need plenty of help though, as Pledger isn’t a one trick pony.  He can shoot as well as get to the basket.

– Make shots: I say this every game, but it really is a problem for Texas.  The Longhors went 10 minutes without making a field goal yesterday against Kansas State.  When they started to make shots, they were able to pull away.

– Stay hungry: 3 in a row is good, but 4 in a row would be better.

Game Notes:

– J’Covan Brown led the way with a game high 23 points

– Alexi Wangmene scored 15 points and pulled down 13 rebounds

– Myck Kabongo scored 13 points and handed out 3 assists

– Sheldon McClellan scored 11 points and grabbed 7 rebounds