Texas (6–2) took down No. 23 NC State (5–2) in a 102–97 shootout, securing its first ranked win of the season—and likely the first of many. In a game driven by pace, shot-making, and relentless offensive pressure, the Longhorns showed exactly why they’re one of the toughest teams in college basketball when they stay in attack mode.
Below is my player of the game and full post-game breakdown.
Player of the game: Jordan Pope, G (#0)
28 points, 4 assists, 53.8% from three, 83.3% FT, 53.3% FG
Pope controlled this game from start to finish. Shot creation, efficiency, poise—every time Texas needed an answer, he delivered one. It was particularly comforting to see him convert over 50% from 3-point range while attempting such a high volume of shots (7/13).
What I liked
Texas played downhill all night, pushing tempo and consistently hunting high-quality looks—the exact identity Sean Miller preached from day one. The Longhorns dominated the efficiency battle as well:
55.8% shooting from the field, 50% from three, 84.8% at the free-throw line, 31 rebounds, 18 assists
Those numbers paint the picture. Texas didn’t just score—they dictated pace, controlled rhythm, and forced NC State to play catch-up the entire night.
Defensively, giving up 46 points in the paint is the one area that needs tightening, especially with tougher matchups on the horizon. But even with that, Texas showcased why they’re quickly becoming one of the most difficult teams in the country to prepare for.
Next game
December 3, 2025
Texas vs. Virginia Cavaliers
9:15 PM ET on ESPNU