Texas vs Texas Tech
Already playing twice this season, Texas will face off against Texas Tech in the first round of the Big 12 Tournament on Thursday night. Each picking up wins against each other on the road, the Longhorns and Red Raiders will now meet in Kansas City to decide the season series.
Coming in as the four and five seed respectively, both teams went 9-9 in conference play this season. The difference though is that Texas is one of the hottest teams in the Big 12, winning five out of their last six games, while Texas Tech is ice cold, losing four games in a row.
To get another win over the Red Raiders, Shaka Smart’s squad must find a way to stop Big 12 Freshman of the Year Jahmi’us Ramsey. In two games against Texas, he is averaging 15.5 points, leading Texas Tech in scoring in both games. The Arlington, TX native has been the best player for Chris Beard this season.
For Texas, the offensive production from the guards needs to come back after a poor showing in the season finale against Oklahoma State. Andrew Jones, in particular, had been on fire for the Longhorns, setting his career-high of 22 twice against West Virginia and Texas Tech. Him, Matt Coleman, and Courtney Ramey will need to show out for Texas to have a chance.
In a game that feels like an elimination game from the NCAA Tournament, it is a must-win for both teams. The winner will get a spot in the big dance. The loser will be in the NIT and in the case of the Longhorns, possibly firing their head coach.