Texas Women Headed to Sweet 16 After Win Over Alabama

Following their victory against the Alabama Crimson Tide, the Texas Longhorns women's basketball team is advancing to the Sweet 16.

Iowa State v Texas / Jay Biggerstaff/GettyImages

With a hard-fought 65-54 victory over Alabama on Sunday, the No. 1 seed Texas Longhorns advanced to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. This marked the 18th Sweet 16 appearance in the program's history.

Coach Vic Schaefer, has also now guided the Horns to the Sweet 16 in three out of four seasons.

Madison Booker found herself in a tight spot late in the third quarter, swarmed by two Alabama defenders. But with quick reflexes, she managed to retain possession and swiftly passed the ball to her teammate, Aaliyah Moore. Moore, under pressure, dribbled towards the sideline before returning the pass to Booker at the top of the key.

As the shot clock dwindled down to its final moments, Booker dished the ball back to Moore, who, in a moment of brilliance, sunk a 3-pointer right in front of the Texas bench.

This unexpected turn of events was just one of many in a game filled with twists and turns, ultimately leading to a familiar outcome for the Longhorns.

Iowa State v Texas / Jay Biggerstaff/GettyImages

Despite missing most of last season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee and battling tendinitis in the other knee, Moore showcased her resilience by delivering a stellar performance. Matching her career best with 21 points and securing 10 rebounds.

She also made a crucial defensive play in the fourth quarter, aiding Texas in their win.

The game itself was a battle between two high-scoring offenses, but both teams struggled to find their usual rhythm. Despite this, Texas managed to capitalize on strong defensive play, blocking a season-high 11 shots and getting significant contributions from key players like Booker and Moore, who each scored 21 points.

While Alabama put up a valiant effort, led by Sarah Ashlee Barker's 17 points, they ultimately fell short against Texas' tenacious defense.

Until then the Longhorns will continue their march through the tournament next weekend in Portland, Oregon vs. either No. 5 seed Utah or Gonzaga in the Sweet 16.