NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - MARCH 14: Tre Johnson #20 of the Texas Longhorns against the Tennessee Volunteers during the SEC Men's Basketball Tournament - Quarterfinals at Bridgestone Arena on March 14, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. at Bridgestone Arena on March 14, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
Both Texas (19-15, 6-12 SEC) and Xavier (21-11, 13-7 Big East) enter the tournament with a chip on their shoulders and something to prove.
Texas’s season has been a rollercoaster, but their ability to secure big wins against top-tier opponents proves just how dangerous the Longhorns can be when they’re at their best. They also have Tre Johnson, the NBA’s No. 5-ranked prospect, who can score with the best of them and take over a game when needed.
Xavier has been battle-tested in tight games and boasts a well-balanced offensive attack. Led by Ryan Conwell and Zach Freemantle, the Musketeers can be a nightmare for opposing defenses when they’re in rhythm and could pose serious problems for Texas.
For the Longhorns, the key will be limiting Xavier’s perimeter shooting and making sure Freemantle doesn’t control the game inside. On the other side, the Musketeers will have to find a way to handle Texas’s athleticism and interior presence. Rebounding and turnovers will be major factors in determining the outcome, with Xavier entering as a 2.5-point favorite over Texas.
