Mountaineers Edge Out Longhorns in a Nail-Biter at WVU Coliseum
The West Virginia Mountaineers emerged victorious against the Texas Longhorns with a final score of 76-73. The Mountaineers now stand unranked, while the Longhorns hold the 25th rank nationally. The game saw both teams fiercely contesting every point, but it was the home team's slight edge that sealed their win.
In an intense matchup at the WVU Coliseum, witnessed by 11,565 attendees, the West Virginia Mountaineers showcased their determination and skill on their home court. The game was marked by numerous lead changes—a total of 13 throughout—and was tied six times, indicating just how evenly matched and competitive both teams were.
The Mountaineers' performance was notable for its defensive tenacity and offensive execution. They recorded a total of 10 steals and matched the Longhorns with two blocks each. On offense, they managed to sink seven three-point shots out of an attempted 17, matching a three-point percentage of 41 percent with their opponents. Their free throw attempts were significantly higher than those of Texas; they took advantage of this by making 27 out of 41 free throws which translated to a free throw percentage rounded off to about two-thirds success rate.
West Virginia's rebounding effort slightly surpassed that of Texas', pulling down a total of 32 rebounds compared to Texas' 31. This included ten offensive rebounds which contributed to second-chance points that proved crucial in such a close contest.
A key aspect where West Virginia excelled over Texas was in assists; they tallied up eleven assists over Texas' seven which demonstrated better ball distribution among players leading to more scoring opportunities created as reflected in their assist-to-turnover ratio being more favorable at approximately zero point sixty-nine compared to zero point thirty-three for Texas.
Despite committing fewer personal fouls—15 against Texas' substantial count at twenty-eight—the Mountaineers still had sixteen turnovers during the game but managed them well enough not to let them become detrimental.
Looking ahead for fans eager for more action from their team: The West Virginia Mountaineers are scheduled next to face off against Oklahoma Sooners on January 17th at Lloyd Noble Center located in Norman, OK. This away game is set for broadcast on ESPN+ starting at approximately seven o'clock PM Eastern Time zone allowing fans not able to attend another opportunity to follow along as events unfold live.