Texas Longhorns vs Texas A&m Aggies Picks and Predictions January 25th 2025

No. 13 Texas A&M Seeks Season Sweep Against Rival Texas in Pivotal SEC Showdown

The Lone Star State rivalry reignites as No. 13 Texas A&M takes on Texas in a highly anticipated Southeastern Conference (SEC) matchup on Saturday afternoon in Austin, Texas. With both teams vying for critical momentum in conference play, this clash promises drama, grit, and a battle for dominance in one of college basketball’s toughest leagues.

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Renewing a Storied Rivalry

The Aggies and Longhorns began their SEC seasons with a heated showdown on Jan. 4, when Texas A&M delivered a commanding 80-60 victory in College Station. That win set the tone for the Aggies, while the Longhorns have been battling to prove they belong among the league’s best. Saturday’s game marks Texas’ opportunity to exact revenge and show they’ve turned a corner in their inaugural SEC campaign.

Texas A&M: Grit, Resilience, and Rebounding

The Aggies enter this game with a 15-4 overall record (4-2 in SEC play), buoyed by their remarkable 63-62 comeback victory over No. 16 Ole Miss on Wednesday. Down by 11 points in the second half and trailing 60-52 with just two minutes remaining, the Aggies rallied in stunning fashion.

• Clutch Performances: Manny Obaseki hit the game-winning 3-pointer with 12.5 seconds left, capping a stellar second-half effort. Zhuric Phelps led the team with 14 points, while Obaseki (12 points) and Pharrel Payne (10 points) combined for 22 second-half points.
• Rebounding Dominance: Despite shooting just 38.7% from the field and committing a season-high 20 turnovers, Texas A&M’s relentless effort on the boards was key. The Aggies outrebounded Ole Miss 48-31, with 14 offensive rebounds providing crucial second-chance opportunities.
• Coach’s Insight: Head coach Buzz Williams praised his team’s resilience: “Nearly every single possible thing analytically had to go right for us to even have a chance. Our guys play with great belief in one another. And in 2025, sometimes that gives you a chance when things never go your way.”

With a deep roster and a proven ability to battle through adversity, Texas A&M is well-equipped to handle the physicality of SEC play.

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Texas: Signs of Growth in a Tough Stretch

The Longhorns (13-6, 2-4 SEC) may not be ranked, but they’re finding their footing after a challenging start to conference play. Tuesday’s 61-53 victory over No. 22 Missouri showcased their growth and ability to compete against ranked opponents.

• Standout Performances: Arthur Kaluma recorded a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds, while freshman guard Tre Johnson added 12 points. Their performances were instrumental in a game defined by grit and determination.
• Rebounding as a Weapon: Texas controlled the glass, outrebounding Missouri 39-31 and amassing a 20-4 advantage in second-chance points. This toughness will be crucial against an Aggies squad that thrives on dominating the boards.
• Building Confidence: “We stayed poised the whole game and without panicking we were able to win,” said Longhorns center Kadin Shedrick. Head coach Rodney Terry echoed this sentiment, crediting his team’s growing toughness: “We’ve had to learn to put our helmets on. It’s a physical league with guys crashing.”

Texas faces its sixth ranked opponent in seven games, making Saturday’s showdown another opportunity to prove their mettle.

Key Matchup Factors

1. Rebounding Battle: Both teams excel in rebounding, and controlling the boards will likely decide the outcome. Texas A&M ranks among the SEC’s best in rebounding margin, while Texas showed its prowess with second-chance opportunities against Missouri.
2. Clutch Playmakers: Texas A&M will look to Manny Obaseki and Zhuric Phelps to deliver under pressure, while Texas will rely on Arthur Kaluma’s leadership and Tre Johnson’s scoring ability.
3. Turnovers and Efficiency: The Aggies struggled with turnovers in their last game, while the Longhorns have had issues with shooting efficiency. Whichever team can clean up its mistakes will have the upper hand.
4. Momentum and Physicality: Both teams are battle-tested, with recent wins against ranked opponents bolstering their confidence. The physical nature of SEC play adds an extra layer of intensity to this matchup.

What’s at Stake?

For Texas A&M, this game represents a chance to solidify its place near the top of the SEC standings and continue building its résumé for March Madness. Meanwhile, Texas seeks a signature win to prove it belongs among the conference elite and keep its postseason hopes alive.

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Final Thoughts

Saturday’s game between Texas A&M and Texas is more than just a rivalry—it’s a battle of identity, toughness, and the relentless pursuit of success in the nation’s most competitive conference. The Aggies aim to complete the season sweep, while the Longhorns look to defend their home court and make a statement. Expect a physical, hard-fought contest with no shortage of drama.