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Heather Dinich reveals Texas' current CFP standing

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, October 24th 2025 at 13:18 GMT by on3.com
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Texas Women’s Basketball Still Has a Shot at the Big Play, Coach Heather Dinich Says

The Texas Longhorns women's basketball team has not yet finished its season, but coach Heather Dinich remains confident that the squad can still make a splash in the postseason. In a recent interview on On 3.com, Dinich stressed that the Longhorns “still have a shot at the CFP” (though she meant the NCAA tournament), provided they get “in the game” and start looking the part.

Current Standing

Texas sits in the middle of the Big 12 standings, hovering just above .500 in conference play. Their overall record is 12‑8, with a 7‑4 mark against Big 12 opponents. The Longhorns are fighting for the second or third seed in the conference tournament, which could secure them an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament or at least improve their resume for an at‑large selection.

“Every game counts,” Dinich told the reporters. “We’re in the middle of the pack and that means we have a realistic chance to push our way up, but it’s going to require effort and focus.” She added that the team’s recent 14‑point win over Oklahoma was a turning point, giving the squad a taste of what a stronger defense can do.

The “Looking the Part” Mindset

Dinich’s comments focus on a mindset shift that will be required for the Longhorns to thrive. “The thing we need to do is look the part,” she said. “It’s not just about talent. It’s about intensity, the willingness to hit the floor hard, and to show that we belong at the top of the conference.”

She highlighted the importance of defensive pressure, calling for a “full‑court effort” in the final quarter. The Longhorns have struggled to keep opponents below 65 points in the last six games, and Dinich believes that tightening up defensively will be the key to winning late‑game contests.

Key Players and Roster Depth

The core of the team remains solid. Senior forward Maya Wilson continues to be a dominant inside presence, averaging 12 points and 8 rebounds per game. Freshman guard Lilliana Dumas, who entered the starting lineup in late February, is showing flashes of brilliance, contributing 10 points and 5 assists on her nights on the floor.

“We’re lucky to have this depth,” Dinich said. “With players like Wilson, Dumas, and junior guard Jada Miller, we’re building a roster that can get into a rhythm and then sustain it.”

The Longhorns also benefit from their defensive specialists. Junior center Rhiannon Mason has been a force in the paint, shutting down opposing bigs and blocking 3.5 shots per game. Dinich praised her work ethic, noting that she has become “the backbone of our defense.”

Big 12 Tournament Outlook

The Big 12 tournament will be the Longhorns’ most immediate opportunity to secure an NCAA berth. With the tournament scheduled for March 10–13 in Kansas City, Texas will face a tough path, potentially meeting the top seed early if they secure the third spot.

“Everything comes down to the conference tournament,” Dinich said. “If we win the Big 12 title, it’s automatic. If not, we’ll need to prove ourselves in the tournament to earn that at‑large bid.”

Her comments came after the team’s 77‑65 victory over Kansas State, which snapped a two‑game losing streak against the Wildcats. “That win gave us a lot of confidence,” Dinich said. “We know that we’re capable of beating teams that are at the level we aspire to.”

Recruiting and Future Outlook

Looking beyond the current season, Dinich discussed the recruiting class that will join the program next year. “We have a very strong recruiting class that brings a lot of talent and grit,” she noted. “These guys and girls are going to step up when we need them to.”

The long‑term stability of the program is underscored by Dinich’s three‑year tenure, during which she has consistently improved the team’s performance. Under her leadership, Texas has been a perennial contender in the Big 12 and has made consecutive NCAA tournament appearances in the past four seasons.

Follow‑up Links

• Texas Women’s Basketball Roster – https://www.on3.com/college/texas-longhorns/roster/
• Big 12 Women’s Basketball Standings – https://www.on3.com/college/big12/standings/
• Upcoming Schedule – https://www.on3.com/college/texas-longhorns/schedule/

These resources provide real‑time updates on player stats, game results, and standings, allowing fans to track the Longhorns’ progress as they head toward the postseason.

In summary, Heather Dinich has painted a picture of a Texas squad that is still in contention for a prestigious postseason run, provided they adopt a sharper mindset, tighten their defense, and capitalize on the opportunity presented by the Big 12 tournament. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, the Longhorns are poised to take a serious shot at the “CFP” – the NCAA tournament – if they can keep the momentum going in the crucial weeks that lie ahead.