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. Â Kansas State’s defense was doing quite the job. Â 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. Â Texas was down, but not out. Â No way would the Longhorns would not allow their NCAA tournament hopes to slip away that easily. Â They battled back and dominated the 2nd half, outscoring the Wildcats 48-24. Â The 2nd half charge was led by Alexi Wangmene, who recorded his first career double double. Â Wangmene finished with 15 points, 13 rebounds and 2 blocks. Â The Longhorns also got strong performances from J’Covan Brown, Myck Kabongo, Sheldon McClellan, Julien Lewis and Jonathan Holmes in the 2nd half. Â Lewis’ defense on Kansas State point guard Angel Rodriguez was key in the Longhorn comeback. Â Brown, Holmes and McClellan provided timely baskets during the big 2nd half run. Â The win puts Texas in a tie with Kansas State for 5th place in the conference. Â 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. Â I anticipate he’ll get the assignment. Â He will need plenty of help though, as Pledger isn’t a one trick pony. Â 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. Â The Longhors went 10 minutes without making a field goal yesterday against Kansas State. Â 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
