AUSTIN, Texas — In a dominant performance, Madison Booker led the fifth-ranked Texas team to a resounding victory over the 18th-ranked Alabama, winning 84-40 on Thursday evening. Booker scored 21 points in only 18 minutes, helping the Longhorns secure their ninth consecutive win.
With this triumph, Texas improved its season record to 16-1, remaining undefeated in the Southeastern Conference at 3-0. The Longhorns’ impressive home court record now stands at 16 straight wins, stretching back to January 2024. They started strong, outpacing the Crimson Tide by establishing a 29-7 lead after the first quarter, ultimately ending Alabama’s six-game winning streak.
Taylor Jones contributed significantly, with a double-double that included 11 points and 12 rebounds. Point guard Rori Harmon also made her mark by accumulating 10 points along with six assists, five rebounds, and two steals. For Alabama, Karly Weathers was the top scorer with seven points, but Zaay Green struggled by only netting five points—far below her season average of 17, while also accounting for nine of the team’s 20 turnovers.
Alabama’s shooting was particularly lackluster, finishing the game with just 27% from the field and converting only 4 out of 23 attempts from beyond the arc. The Crimson Tide typically average nine three-pointers per game but failed to find their rhythm against a well-prepared Texas defense.
In terms of noteworthy details, Alabama was missing Sarah Ashlee Barker, a prominent first-team All-SEC player, due to a lower leg injury for the second consecutive game. Furthermore, Aaliyah Nye, noted for her 3-point shooting skills, managed to score only once in eight attempts against Texas.
Booker, who was an AP All-American second team member last season, showcased her potential early in the game, going 4 for 4 from the field and making 3 out of 4 free throws, before being sidelined with two fouls just seven minutes in. She did not return until the third quarter, demonstrating her impact on the game.
A crucial moment came when Alabama struggled early, committing five turnovers and missing three shots before falling behind by 14-0. By the end of the first quarter, they had accrued nine turnovers and failed to recover from the shaky start.
An important statistic from the game highlighted Texas’s defensive prowess: they outscored Alabama 33-5 in points off turnovers. The Longhorns have now forced a total of 72 turnovers in three games against SEC opponents, showcasing their ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Looking ahead, Alabama will take on Mississippi this Sunday, while Texas prepares for a challenging contest against second-ranked South Carolina.
