N※N

No. 6 Texas vs. No. 19 Oklahoma in Pivotal Big 12 Showdown

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. s-no-19-oklahoma-in-pivotal-big-12-showdown.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 3:48 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Oklahoma, Texas, UNITED STATES

Norman, Oklahoma - February 1, 2026 - The Lloyd Noble Center is set to host a compelling Big 12 women's basketball matchup today as the No. 6 Texas Longhorns travel to take on the No. 19 Oklahoma Sooners. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 PM Eastern Time, with the game being broadcast nationally on ESPN2 and available for streaming via ESPN+ and the ESPN app.

This contest isn't just another conference game; it's a pivotal clash with significant implications for the Big 12 standings and NCAA Tournament seeding. Both teams enter the game with strong records - Texas at 17-3 overall and 8-1 in Big 12 play, while Oklahoma stands at 13-7 overall and 6-3 in conference action. The Longhorns currently hold a narrow lead in the conference, and a victory here would solidify their position at the top. For Oklahoma, a win against a Top 10 opponent would be a massive statement and propel them into serious contention for the conference crown.

The historical narrative heavily favors Texas. The Longhorns have dominated the series recently, winning the last seven meetings against the Sooners. However, Oklahoma, playing on their home court, will be eager to break that streak and prove they've closed the gap. The energy of the Norman crowd is expected to be a significant factor, creating a challenging atmosphere for the visiting Longhorns.

Key Players to Watch

All eyes will be on Texas's Khadija Johnson, the team's leading scorer averaging an impressive 18.5 points per game. Johnson's ability to penetrate the defense, create opportunities for teammates, and consistently hit from beyond the arc makes her a constant threat. She's a key component of the Longhorns' offensive system, and Oklahoma's defensive strategy will undoubtedly focus on containing her.

On the Sooners side, Milly Thompson will be crucial. Averaging 16.2 points per game, Thompson is Oklahoma's primary offensive weapon. She's a versatile player capable of scoring both inside and outside, and her ability to drive to the basket and draw fouls could be a game-changer. Thompson's performance will be vital for the Sooners to keep pace with the high-powered Texas offense.

Beyond the Stars: Coaching Matchup and Team Dynamics

The coaching matchup is also intriguing. Both programs are led by seasoned coaches known for their strategic prowess and ability to develop talent. The tactical battle between the benches will be fascinating to observe, with adjustments likely made throughout the game based on what each team throws at the other.

Texas boasts a deep roster with multiple scoring threats beyond Johnson, providing Coach [insert coach name if known] with flexibility and options. Their defensive intensity is a hallmark of their success, consistently forcing turnovers and limiting opponents' scoring opportunities. However, they have occasionally struggled with consistency on the road.

Oklahoma, under the guidance of [insert coach name if known], has built a team known for its resilience and gritty determination. They excel in transition offense and are particularly effective at utilizing their home-court advantage. While their overall depth might not match Texas, they are a dangerous team when playing with confidence and energy.

Looking Ahead: Championship Implications

The outcome of this game will have significant ramifications for the Big 12 Championship race. A Texas victory would further cement their status as the team to beat, while an Oklahoma win would inject new life into the competition and create a three-way tie for the lead alongside [mention another possible contender if known]. Both teams are aiming for a high seed in the NCAA Tournament, and this game will be crucial in determining their ultimate fate. Analysts predict that the winner will be in a good position to secure a Top 4 seed, guaranteeing them home-court advantage in the early rounds of the tournament.

Fans can tune in to ESPN2 at 2:00 PM ET to witness this thrilling showdown between two of the Big 12's top contenders. The game promises to be a fast-paced, competitive affair with plenty of drama and excitement.