Finally, the day has come for one of the Texas Longhorns' most dominant programs to take the court and start its season: the women's basketball team.
Over the last few years, we have seen the Horns rise to the top of the game, and that's a huge nod to head coach Vic Schaefer. However, it's also a nod to just how talented the roster has been and how well those players have worked together.
So, as the No. 6 Texas women prepare to tip off their first regular-season game of the year against the Farleigh Dickinson Knights, what are a few things you should keep your eyes on in the matchup?
1. Madison Booker will step into a vocal leadership role
Through the first three years of Madison Booker's career, we have seen the dynamic forward truly come into her own as a player. This year, expect her to reach her final form as a leader as well.
In the past, teammates like Rori Harmon, Taylor Jones, Shaylee Gonzales, and others have played the vocal role. Now, as one of the most veteran players within Schaefer's program, it's Booker's time to take control of this team and lead them to the ultimate glory.
With two Final Four appearances, but repeatedly falling short of the National Championship, don't be surprised if Booker has one thing in mind, even before the season officially tips off: winning it all.
2. Freshmen will contribute significant minutes
Not only did Schaefer see the return of stars and beloved players like Booker, Breya Cunningham, Sarah Graves, and more, but he also brought in the No. 1 recruiting class of 2026, adding young talent across the board.
Sure, Booker, Cunningham, Bryanna Preston, and a couple of other veteran players will likely round out the starting lineup, but don't be surprised if Schaefer rotates in those freshman talents to start their season on the right foot:
- Aaliah Spaight, four-star point guard
- Amalia Hoguin, four-star shooting guard
- Addison Bjorn, four-star small forward
- Isi Etute, four-star power forward
- Bri Crittendon, four-star power forward
Texas's roster is absolutely stacked this season, and as the Horns build an expected large lead over the Knights, it should come as no surprise when Schaefer taps into the depth he worked so hard to build.
3. Vic Schaefer will treat Game 1 like a championship game
The Texas women's head coach isn't known to ever take his foot off the gas, no matter what time of year it is. Expect for that much to be true tonight.
If there is a single moment of poor defense or questionable decisions on offense, get ready for Schaefer to rip off his coat just like he does when he gets frustrated in the most important games of the season (the SEC Championship, the Final Four, etc.).
Also read: Texas's final 2 exhibition games proved Horns can play at the standard Vic Schaefer should expect
No, FDU is not close to the caliber of teams that Texas will face deeper into the schedule, but every game matters, and Schaefer is the epitome of a coach who expects the absolute best from his team at all times.
How to watch No. 6 Texas women's basketball vs. FDU
- Date & Time: Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. CT
- Location: Moody Center, Austin, TX
- TV/Streaming: SEC Network+, fuboTV
- Radio: TexasSports.com
The Horns will tip off their season opener at 7 p.m. CT from their home court at the Moody Center, and the game will be aired on the SEC Network+.
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