The Texas Longhorns basketball team staged a dramatic late-game rally to defeat No. 15 Kentucky 82-78 on Saturday, fueled by season-best performances from freshman guard Tre Johnson (32 points) and senior forward Tramon Mark (26 points). The victory snapped Texas’ three-game losing streak and delivered a critical boost to their NCAA Tournament résumé.
Trailing 69-64 with under four minutes remaining, Texas launched a decisive 14-1 run. Johnson and Mark combined for 12 points during this stretch, including a clutch three-point play by Johnson after a rebound-and-putback. Kentucky’s late collapse was exacerbated by 15 turnovers – five above their season average – which Texas converted into 21 crucial points. The Longhorns also dominated fast-break scoring (16-10) despite shooting just 1-of-8 from three-point range.
Key factors in Texas’ upset:
- Tre Johnson’s relentless drives (10 two-point field goals, 9/10 FT)
- Kentucky’s uncharacteristic 6/24 three-point shooting (25%)
- Wildcats missing starters Jaxson Robinson (wrist) and Lamont Butler (shoulder)
Kentucky’s Otega Oweh led his team with 20 points, while Amari Williams logged an 18-point, 12-rebound double-double. However, the Wildcats struggled defensively against Texas’ backcourt and couldn’t contain Mark’s three three-pointers in critical moments.
The Longhorns overcame their own adversity, playing without top rebounder Arthur Kaluma (knee). Replacement starter Jayson Kent contributed eight rebounds as Texas limited Kentucky to seven offensive boards. With this win, Texas improves to 16-10 (5-8 SEC), while Kentucky falls to 17-8 (6-6 SEC).
“This team showed championship grit,” said Texas interim coach Rodney Terry. “When your seniors and freshmen both step up like that, special things happen.”
Texas faces South Carolina next Saturday, while Kentucky hosts Vanderbilt on Wednesday in must-win games for both programs.
