As the college basketball season approaches, one Longhorn in particular is starting to make serious noise in Austin. His name? Jordan Pope. The Oregon State transfer has every tool to play at the next level when his time comes, but this year — this Texas team — might just be where he breaks out.
2024 Season stats
11.0 Points per game | 1.7 Assist per game | 2.0 Rebounds per game | 1.0 Steals per game | 0.9 Turnovers per game
43.5% Field goal | 36.4% Three-point | 86.5% Free throw
Pope’s game: reliable, confident, and cold-blooded
Pope is that steady hand every great team needs — the one who never flinches when the game gets tight. He’s a reliable shooter who shows up in crunch time and gives Texas a weapon on every possession.
Shooting:
In an SEC loaded with talent, Pope’s confidence as a scorer is what sets him apart. He shoots the ball with purpose, and he’s not afraid to take the big shot. Whether it’s a spot-up three or a pull-up jumper off the dribble, he’s deadly from everywhere.
Slashing:
Pope doesn’t just live behind the arc — he’s more than capable of slicing his way into the paint and forcing defenses to scramble. When he gets downhill, he opens up looks for his teammates and keeps the defense guessing.
Areas of growth
Use fewer dribbles: Get to your spot faster, stay efficient, and keep the offense flowing.
Take the midrange: Those shots will be open — take them. It’ll force defenders to close out harder, giving you more room to operate.
Embrace the pick-and-roll: You’ve got the tools to be an even more dangerous playmaker. Use it to boost assists and spacing.
Set the tone early: You’re the catalyst. As you go, the Longhorns go. Be aggressive from the jump.
System fit
Pope fits Sean Miller’s system like a glove. He’s a natural self-starter who can create his own shot, push the tempo, and control the pace of the game. That quick-strike tempo could become Texas’s biggest advantage in conference play.
Final take
This Texas roster has the balance, depth, and leadership to make a real run this year. But the X-factor? It might just be Pope. If he catches fire early and embraces the role as this team’s spark, don’t be surprised if Texas is battling for the SEC crown — and making noise deep into March.