Texas Longhorns
Record: 23-10
Head coach: Rick Barnes (16th season)
Season summary: Texas is one of the big surprises of this regular season. The Longhorns came from way off the nation’s radar screen with some big wins against teams like Kansas, Iowa State, Baylor, Oklahoma State and North Carolina. Head coach Rick Barnes has been notably disappointed with his team’s finish, however, as the Longhorns limped across the finish line losing five of their final eight games. Texas does not shoot the lights out, averaging only 43.1 percent from the field, but its sizable frontcourt is skilled in getting to the bucket. Jonathon Holmes and Isiah Taylor (13.0 PPG and 12.5 PPG, respectively) lead the team in scoring.
How they make a run: After the Longhorns' loss to Baylor in the conference tournament semifinal, Barnes told his team they could beat anyone if players stick to their roles. Texas must stick to its strengths and avoid settling on offense if it wants to make a deep tournament run.
How they falter: Texas’ most recent loss looked like a dunk contest for their opponent—Baylor. Surrendering big plays could be the Longhorn’s downfall.
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