Louisville basketball showed significant improvement and fought hard against No. 19 Texas in the Empire Classic, but ultimately lost 81-80 on a buzzer-beater by Max Abmas. Coach Kenny Payne praised his team's effort and challenged them to continue fighting and improving. Brandon Huntley-Hatfield played well but needs to improve his conditioning. Despite defensive lapses, Louisville battled on the boards and attacked the basket. The game showcased a level of play that Louisville hasn't seen in a long time.
Tre Johnson, the No. 4 recruit in the 2024 class, has committed to play basketball for the University of Texas. The 5-star point guard chose Texas over Baylor after a competitive recruitment process. Johnson cited his strong relationship with the coaching staff and the supportive fan base as factors in his decision. He joins two other ESPN 100 recruits in Texas' 2024 class.
Lance Blanks, a basketball legend from Texas who played for the UT Longhorns and had a three-year NBA career, has died at the age of 56. Blanks was known for his athleticism and flair on the court, as well as his controversial behavior. He held the UT record for the most points by a two-year player and still ranks fourth in career scoring average. Blanks was working as a scout for the Los Angeles Clippers when he died and is survived by two daughters.
Texas basketball has reidentified itself under interim coach Rodney Terry, making him a strong candidate for the permanent job. The team has overcome the firing of former coach Chris Beard and is now in the Sweet 16 for the first time in 15 years. Texas has a roster that includes five transfers and seven players who returned from the 2021-22 team that won 21 games under Beard. The Longhorns are a workhorse team that has been battle-tested and is now crossing the threshold to national greatness.
