Category: Texas Longhorn

BREAKING: Kevin Durant Wins Oscar Robertson Trophy Midseason Award

The University of Texas Longhorns basketball program has reached a major milestone with the announcement that Kevin Durant has been awarded the coveted Oscar Robertson Trophy Midseason Award. This honor, given annually to the best player in the country, highlights Durant’s exceptional performance on the court and cements his position as one of the most dominant players in college basketball.

Kevin Durant, a freshman phenom, has been a revelation for the Longhorns this season, quickly establishing himself as one of the top players in the nation. The Oscar Robertson Trophy is awarded by the United States Basketball Writers Association (USBWA) and is named after the legendary Oscar Robertson, often considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time. The award recognizes the best player in college basketball, taking into account their statistics, performance, and impact on the game.

Durant’s selection as the recipient of this prestigious award is a testament to his incredible abilities on the court. Standing at 6’9″, Durant possesses an impressive combination of size, skill, and versatility that few can match. His scoring ability is unparalleled, as he is capable of scoring from virtually anywhere on the floor. Whether it’s from beyond the three-point arc, in the post, or driving to the basket, Durant has proven himself to be a complete offensive threat. His scoring average, which has consistently been among the best in the nation, speaks to his ability to take over games when needed.

In addition to his scoring, Durant’s all-around game has been a key factor in his success. He has demonstrated a remarkable ability to contribute in other areas, including rebounding, passing, and defense. Durant’s basketball IQ allows him to make plays and decisions that often lead to easy baskets for his teammates. His defense has also been a standout aspect of his game, as he uses his length and athleticism to disrupt opposing offenses. Durant’s ability to guard multiple positions and make plays on both ends of the court makes him a true two-way player, a rarity in today’s game.

Durant’s accomplishments this season have not only earned him individual accolades but have also propelled the Longhorns into the national spotlight. Under his leadership, the team has climbed to the top of the national rankings, and they are widely considered one of the best teams in the country. Durant’s performances in big games have been particularly impressive, as he has consistently risen to the occasion and delivered when his team needed him most.

This midseason recognition comes at a pivotal moment in Durant’s career. His success in college basketball has generated significant attention from NBA scouts, and he is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the upcoming NBA Draft. However, Durant has made it clear that his primary focus remains on helping the Longhorns achieve their goals this season, including making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

For the University of Texas, Durant’s selection for the Oscar Robertson Trophy Midseason Award is a historic achievement. It is a testament to the program’s growth and success under head coach Rick Barnes, who has fostered an environment that allows players like Durant to thrive. This award not only highlights Durant’s individual brilliance but also underscores the strength and potential of the Longhorns as they continue their pursuit of excellence in college basketball.

In conclusion, Kevin Durant’s victory of the Oscar Robertson Trophy Midseason Award serves as a major milestone in his remarkable freshman season and is a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional on-court performances. With his combination of skill, versatility, and leadership, Durant has firmly established himself as one of the best players in the nation and a future star in the NBA. As the season progresses, basketball fans will undoubtedly continue to watch in awe as Durant leads the Longhorns toward their ultimate goals.

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian sees no use in trying to create a storyline that doesn’t exist heading into next season.

With Quinn Ewers having declared for the NFL Draft, Texas will have a new starting quarterback in 2025. That quarterback is going to be Arch Manning, who has been the most high-profile backup in the nation over the past two years.

During a Thursday appearance on the “Up & Adams” show, Sarkisian was asked if he is ready to name Manning the new starting quarterback of the Longhorns. The coach laughed and essentially admitted that there will be no QB competition in Austin this summer.

“It would be pretty tough for me to say he’s probably not gonna be our starting quarterback,” Sarkisian said. “He started for us a couple games last year and played really good football. Our first game in the SEC against Mississippi State, he was our starting quarterback. Quinn had been nicked up. I think the exposure that he’s had, I think he’s ready for the moment. … He’s gotta earn it, but I feel pretty good about it.”

Manning got some playing time this season and completed 67.8% of his passes for 939 yards, 9 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. He also rushed for 108 yards and 4 scores. Sarkisian used the former 5-star recruit on certain packages late in the season .

There were some rumblings about Manning potentially transferring before Ewers declared for the NFL Draft, but that was never realistic. Manning will finally have an opportunity to live up to his name next season.

The post Steve Sarkisian makes least surprising announcement appeared first on Larry Brown Sports .

So why did Arch Manning land with the Texas Longhorns a couple years back?

Manning explained himself during a recent sit-down interview with ESPN.

“There are a few reasons. I liked Coach [Steve Sarkisian] a lot from the jump. Austin was a good spot for me. There’s so much to do here,” Manning said, per Inside Texas. “And then, most importantly, I think I wanted to go somewhere where, you know, maybe they haven’t been as good the past few years, and were kind of on the rise. Kind of wanted to bring Texas back.”

It’s safe to say Manning has played a role in bringing Texas back, too.

Matthew McConaughey, the Academy Award-winning actor, has long been associated with the University of Texas, but his actions, though well-intentioned, have rubbed some fans the wrong way. While his passion for the Longhorns is evident, his involvement with the football program has led to mixed reactions. McConaughey’s public appearances at games, his presence on the sidelines, and his role in locker room moments have left some fans feeling uneasy, perceiving his actions as overstepping or distracting from the true mission of the team.

One of the main sources of discomfort for some Texas fans is McConaughey’s frequent presence on the sideline, often standing alongside the players and coaches during games. While he’s undoubtedly a high-profile alumnus and ambassador for the school, to some, it seems as though he’s trying to take center stage rather than support the team from behind the scenes. His celebrity status draws media attention, and his actions can sometimes overshadow the actual athletes who are on the field to perform. The idea that a Hollywood actor would be so visibly involved in the game’s proceedings can feel uncomfortable to fans who believe that the focus should be on the players and coaching staff, not on a celebrity trying to live out their own form of gridiron fantasy.

Another point of contention is McConaughey’s tendency to lead locker room speeches. While his passion and energy are undeniable, some fans question whether an outsider—despite his love for the school—should be so deeply involved in the team’s internal motivation. Locker room speeches are usually reserved for the coaching staff and team leaders, whose role is to provide the necessary direction and inspiration. When McConaughey steps into this space, it may feel as though he’s encroaching on a domain that’s meant for those with a direct, professional stake in the team’s success. His speeches, though often motivational, could be seen as distractions that take attention away from the coaches’ strategies and players’ responsibilities.

Additionally, McConaughey’s post-game handshakes with opposing teams might be another point of frustration for some Texas fans. While it’s clear that he’s trying to show sportsmanship and a commitment to the idea of mutual respect between teams, these public gestures can feel a bit too performative. Texas fans may prefer a more straightforward, traditional approach to post-game interactions, where the focus is solely on the players and coaches rather than a celebrity figure shaking hands with their opponents as if he were a key member of the team.

For some, McConaughey’s actions, no matter how well-meaning, come across as self-serving. His high-profile presence on game days and in the locker room can make it seem as though he’s using the program to further his own personal brand, rather than simply supporting his alma mater. The University of Texas is a place with a rich history and a passionate fanbase, and for many fans, they want the attention to remain on the athletes and the coaches who are working hard day in and day out to win games—not on an actor living out a dream.

While there’s no denying McConaughey’s love for the Longhorns, it’s clear that some Texas fans would prefer a more understated role for the actor. His presence in the public eye, though celebrated by some, can be a bit overwhelming for fans who want the focus to stay where it belongs: on the players and coaches, not a celebrity trying to play an outsized role in their success.

 

Former Texas Longhorns head coach Mack Brown is a free agent this offseason.

This comes after Brown concluded a six-year stint with the North Carolina Tar Heels.

The former national title winner was at the Moody Center to take in the Longhorns’ 22-point comeback victory over the Texas A&M Aggies on Saturday.

Brown was seen shaking Texas players’ hands, including key Texas players in safety Michael Taaffe, Arch Manning, Deandre Moore and CJ Baxter at the game.

While Brown has been a popular candidate for a return among fans over the offseason, Saturday’s return made the chorus of support for the move even louder.

One fan shared on the social media platform, X, “Still love me some Mack Brown. Should bring him on board as a analyst/consultant.” Another gave a similar sentiment: “Great seeing Coach Brown back on campus.

Hopefully he’ll have a role with the University soon and let’s get him some fresh gear to wear!” Under Brown’s leadership Texas compiled a streak of nine consecutive 10-win seasons, two Big 12 titles and the team’s most recent national title victory.

Whether or not Brown will play a supporting role for head coach Steve Sarkisian and company is still to be seen, but the hall of fame head coach likely has valuable information to share.

Brown ranks sixth all time in head coaching wins (282) behind Joe Paterno (409), Bobby Bowden (357), Bear Bryant (323), Pop Warner (314) and Nick Saban (297).

The Texas Longhorns are heading into their second season in the SEC, following a run in the College Football Playoff.

Texas finished the season with a 13-3 record and a 7-1 mark in SEC play. They suffered a loss to the Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC Championship Game as well as a loss to the national champion Ohio State Buckeyes in the CFP semifinal game at the Cotton Bowl.

Following the season, a couple of key contributors for the Longhorns declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, including quarterback Quinn Ewers.

Despite a couple of losses, star linebacker Trey Moore announced that he will forgo the draft and return to Texas for his second season with the program.

“Run it back,” posted Moore.