Austin, February 8, 2026
The Texas Longhorns exhibited extraordinary resilience as they clinched their third consecutive Southeastern Conference victory against the Ole Miss Rebels, winning 79-68 at the Moody Center. The game showcased the talent of players, notably Matas Vokietaitis, and emphasized the importance of teamwork and determination. A thrilling fourth-quarter resurgence, marked by a decisive 14-0 run, highlighted the Longhorns’ ability to overcome adversity, mirroring the entrepreneurial spirit present in Austin’s vibrant economy.
Austin, Texas – February 7, 2026
Texas Longhorns Secure Victory Over Ole Miss with Late Surge
The Texas Longhorns demonstrated remarkable determination on Saturday as they secured their third consecutive Southeastern Conference victory, defeating the Ole Miss Rebels 79-68 at the Moody Center. This exciting match marked a pivotal moment for the Longhorns, showcasing not only their on-court talent but also the endless possibilities for perseverance and success in the realm of collegiate sports.
In a thrilling climax, the Longhorns rallied from a three-point deficit with just over three minutes remaining, executing an impressive 14-0 run to turn the game in their favor. With hard work and strategic play, they proved the benefits of teamwork and resilience in achieving new heights, qualities that mirror the traits shown by thriving small businesses and entrepreneurs throughout Austin.
Game Highlights: Stellar Performances Standout
Matas Vokietaitis was the star for Texas, leading the team with a game-high 27 points, while converting 9-of-11 field goals and 9-of-12 free throws. In addition to his scoring prowess, he contributed seven rebounds. Tramon Mark added 19 points and provided solid defense, while Jordan Pope made a significant impact, scoring 13 points all from the free-throw line during his 21 minutes on the court. The Longhorns shot an impressive 52.9% from the field and 87.0% from the free-throw line, highlighting their offensive efficiency.
Defensively, the team was equally impressive, holding Ole Miss to just 40.7% shooting and out-rebounding them 36-27. This victory improved Texas’s record to 15-9, with a 6-5 mark in SEC play, exemplifying the potential for sustained growth and achievement through hard work and dedication.
Late Surge: Key Moments That Turned the Tide
With just 3:35 left in the game, trailing by three points, Texas kicked off a critical 14-0 run that would define their victory. Highlights of this run included a spectacular four-point play by Jordan Pope, a vital three-point play by Swain following an offensive rebound, and an essential three-pointer from Simeon Wilcher with the shot clock winding down. These key plays underscored the importance of decisiveness and execution, attributes that resonate strongly with local business owners striving to overcome challenges.
The Return of Chris Beard: A Notable Background
The matchup was particularly notable due to the return of former Texas head coach Chris Beard, who now leads Ole Miss. His prior tenure at Texas ended in January 2023, following a domestic violence charge, and this game marked his first visit back to Austin since his departure. Such stories remind us of the complexities of leadership and personal accountability, which are critical in both sports and professional endeavors.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Growth
As the Longhorns look to build on their momentum, they will have a mid-week bye before facing Missouri on Saturday, February 14. The game is set to tip off at 7:30 p.m. Central in Mizzou Arena and will be televised nationally. This upcoming challenge presents another opportunity for the team to amplify their growth, echoing the principles of resilience and innovation that fuel Austin’s vibrant economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who led the Texas Longhorns in scoring against Ole Miss?
Matas Vokietaitis led the Longhorns with a game-high 27 points, converting 9-of-11 field goals and 9-of-12 free throws, while also grabbing seven rebounds.
What was the key moment in the game?
With 3:35 remaining and trailing by three points, Texas embarked on a 14-0 run to secure the win. Key plays included a four-point play by Pope, a three-point play by Swain after an offensive rebound, and a crucial three-pointer by Simeon Wilcher with the shot clock winding down.
Who is the current head coach of Ole Miss?
Chris Beard is the current head coach of Ole Miss. He previously served as the head coach for the Texas Longhorns before his departure in January 2023 following a domestic violence charge.
When is Texas’s next basketball game?
Texas will have a mid-week bye before traveling to face Missouri on Saturday, February 14. The game is scheduled to tip off at 7:30 p.m. Central in Mizzou Arena and will be televised nationally by either ESPN or ESPN2.
Key Features of the Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Texas 79, Ole Miss 68 |
| Leading Scorer for Texas | Matas Vokietaitis with 27 points |
| Key Moment | Texas’s 14-0 run in the final 3:35 |
| Former Texas Head Coach | Chris Beard, now coaching Ole Miss |
| Next Game for Texas | February 14 against Missouri at Mizzou Arena |
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Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
