Texas Hoops escapes last-minute push from NC State, 63-59

Texas thwarts off last-minute push by NC State to stay undefeated since Ohio.

The Texas Longhorns capped off the SEC and ACC Challenge with a 63-59 win over the NC State Wolfpack. The Longhorns entered the matchup on a six-game winning streak, having not lost since dropping the season opener in Las Vegas to Ohio State on Nov. 4. Their last victory was over Delaware State in Austin on Friday night.

Tre Johnson led the charge with 18 points on 7-of-15 shooting, including an impressive 4-of-6 from beyond the arc. Jordan Pope contributed 13 points and three rebounds, while Tramon Mark added 10 points with solid two-way play. A last-minute defensive stand by NC native Kadin Shedrick sealed the victory for the Longhorns.

On the opposing side, NC State’s Marcus Hill delivered 16 points on efficient 7-of-11 shooting, while Dontrez Styles came off the bench to score 17 points and provide defensive intensity. Despite their efforts, the Wolfpack struggled from beyond the arc, converting just 5-of-14 attempts compared to Texas’ impressive 47.1%. The rebounding battle also favored the Longhorns, who pulled down 37 boards to NC State’s 30, giving them the edge in second-chance opportunities and overall control of the game.

Texas’ balanced attack and sharp three-point shooting ultimately made the difference. With this win, the Longhorns turn their focus to an exciting matchup against the defending national champion UConn Huskies at the Moody Center on the 8th.

Team Stats Comparison:

Category Texas Longhorns NC State Wolfpack
Field Goal % 45.3% 44.4%
3-Point FG % 47.1% 35.7%
Free Throw % 50.0% 42.9%
Rebounds 37 30
Assists 11 15
Turnovers 12 9