Texas cruised to an 85-49 win over Texas State in front of 7,334 largely quiet and bored fans. Even without Brad Buckman, Mike Williams, and JD Lewis, the Bobcats were significantly overmatched. The Horns opened the game on a 13-0 run and never looked back.

Texas got back in the win column after two embarrassing losses over the last two weeks.  Texas had been plagued by poor defense, turnovers, and inconsistency on offense in each of those two games. Rick Barnes' club looked much better on Thursday night, albeit against an inferior opponent. Texas held Texas State to just 27.8% shooting from the floor while shooting 48% themselves, including 60% in the second half. Texas controlled their turnovers better as well.  The Longhorns coughed up the ball just seven times while forcing 15 Bobcat turnovers.  

Texas was led by strong performances from Lamarcus Aldridge (21 points, 14 rebounds) and PJ Tucker (17 points, 9 rebounds).  Daniel Gibson started the game hot by hitting his first two three pointers but finished with just 15 points on 4-15 shooting (just 3-13 from three).  Gibson also had four assists and four turnovers.  AJ Abrams got his first collegiate start at point guard.  Abrams had a productive game with 11 points, five assists, and just two turnovers.  I am still predicting Abrams will join the staring lineup permanently.  

Next game: Prairie View A&M on Friday December 30th at 7 PM.

--AW--