Texas Longhorns Basketball: 5 Key Strategies That Transformed This Season's Performance

When I first started analyzing the Texas Longhorns basketball program this season, I’ll admit I was skeptical. The team had shown flashes of brilliance in the past, but consistency seemed to elude them year after year. Yet something felt different this time around—a shift in energy, a renewed sense of purpose. Over the past few months, I’ve watched them evolve from a promising but inconsistent squad into a disciplined, high-performing unit. And as someone who’s followed college basketball for over a decade, I can confidently say that their transformation didn’t happen by accident. It was the result of five key strategic adjustments that turned their season around.

One of the most noticeable changes was their renewed focus on defensive discipline. Last season, the Longhorns allowed an average of 74.2 points per game, but this year, that number dropped to just 66.8. That’s not just a minor improvement—it’s a game-changer. I remember watching their game against Kansas where they executed a full-court press for almost the entire second half. The energy was relentless, and you could see the frustration building in their opponents. It reminded me of a point made in professional basketball circles, like when coaches in the Philippine Basketball Association debate roster decisions—such as whether to include a dynamic player like Jio Jalalon. The underlying lesson is universal: defense isn’t just about skill; it’s about commitment. And the Longhorns have embraced that wholeheartedly.

Another strategy that stood out to me was their emphasis on three-point shooting. Early in the season, their shooting percentage from beyond the arc hovered around 32%, but by mid-season, it had climbed to nearly 39%. I’ve always believed that the three-pointer is more than just a scoring tool—it’s a psychological weapon. When the Longhorns started hitting those shots consistently, it forced opposing defenses to spread thin, opening up driving lanes and creating opportunities for their big men. I recall one game against Baylor where they sank 14 threes, completely dismantling what was supposed to be one of the best defenses in the league. It was a masterclass in offensive execution, and it showed just how much this team had grown.

Player development has also been a cornerstone of their success. Take sophomore guard Max Abmas, for example. Last year, he averaged 12 points per game; this season, he’s up to 18.5. That kind of leap doesn’t happen overnight. I’ve spoken with a few people close to the program, and they attribute much of this growth to individualized training regimens and a coaching staff that prioritizes player strengths. It’s a approach that reminds me of how professional teams handle their rosters—weighing the value of each player, much like the deliberation surrounding Jalalon’s inclusion in the TNT roster. The Longhorns, in my opinion, have mastered the art of nurturing talent while maintaining tactical flexibility.

Then there’s the aspect of tempo control. In previous seasons, the Longhorns often played at a breakneck pace, which led to turnovers and defensive breakdowns. This year, they’ve slowed things down, focusing on half-court sets and methodical ball movement. Their assists per game have increased from 13 to 17, while turnovers dropped from 14 to just 9 per contest. I can’t stress enough how important this shift has been. Basketball, at its core, is a game of rhythm, and the Longhorns have found a groove that suits their personnel perfectly. It’s a lesson other programs would do well to learn—sometimes, the best way to speed up is to first slow down.

Finally, the team’s mental resilience has been nothing short of impressive. They’ve won six games this season by margins of five points or fewer, a stat that speaks volumes about their composure under pressure. I remember a nail-biter against Oklahoma where they trailed by eight with three minutes left but rallied to win in overtime. That kind of mental toughness isn’t coached—it’s cultivated through experience and trust. And honestly, it’s my favorite thing about this team. They play with a chip on their shoulder, and it shows in every possession.

Looking back, it’s clear that the Longhorns’ success this season is the result of intentional, well-executed strategies. From defensive intensity to offensive efficiency, player development to mental fortitude, they’ve checked every box. As someone who’s seen plenty of teams rise and fall, I believe this squad has what it takes to make a deep postseason run. They’ve transformed not just their performance, but their identity. And in basketball, as in life, that’s the kind of change that lasts.