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Kentucky basketball clings to lead against Texas: Halftime highlights

The first half was a game of runs, see which team really ended the half well and set themselves up for a good second half.
ByDrew Holbrook|
Feb 15, 2025; Austin, Texas, USA; Kentucky Wildcats center Amari Williams (22) and Texas Longhorns forward Kadin Shedrick (5) battle for the loose ball during the first half at Moody Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Feb 15, 2025; Austin, Texas, USA; Kentucky Wildcats center Amari Williams (22) and Texas Longhorns forward Kadin Shedrick (5) battle for the loose ball during the first half at Moody Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images | Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

Kentucky and Texas are locked in a tight one at the Moody Center, with the Wildcats holding a slim 41-37 advantage at halftime. It’s been a game of runs, hustle plays, and big shots, with both teams showing flashes of brilliance—and a few head-scratching moments along the way.

Wildcats Finding Ways to Score

Despite being shorthanded in the backcourt, Kentucky has found offensive balance, led by Amari Williams. The big man has been a force down low with 9 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists, giving Texas trouble inside. Otega Oweh has been aggressive attacking the rim, contributing 8 points on 4-of-7 shooting, while Trent Noah has chipped in 7 points, including a smooth three-pointer.

Off the bench, Ansley Almonor has provided a spark with 8 points and 3 rebounds in just 13 minutes, showing off his versatility. Meanwhile, Brandon Garrison has quietly impacted the game with 4 points and 2 assists, moving the ball well for a big man.

Shooting-wise, Kentucky is hitting at a solid 45.5% clip (15-for-33) but struggling from deep, knocking down just 3-of-13 three-pointers. Fortunately, they’ve made up for it by getting to the line and converting 8-of-11 free throws.

Texas Leaning on Johnson and Mark

For the Longhorns, Tyrese Johnson has been the star of the half, pouring in 15 points on 6-of-14 shooting while adding 3 rebounds and 2 assists. His ability to create his own shot has kept Texas in it. Tramon Mark has also been effective, scoring 11 points on 5-of-9 shooting.

The Longhorns have been efficient overall, shooting 16-of-35 (45.7%), but like Kentucky, they’ve struggled from beyond the arc (3-of-13). One major difference? Texas has only attempted two free throws, a sign that Kentucky’s defense has done a good job of keeping them from easy opportunities at the line.

What to Watch for in the Second Half

  1. Can Kentucky Maintain Control? – The Wildcats have played well offensively, but their tendency to let teams hang around has been an issue this season. Can they close out strong?
  2. Who Wins the Three-Point Battle? – Both teams are ice-cold from deep. Whichever squad finds its rhythm from beyond the arc could have the upper hand.
  3. Foul Trouble – Texas already has nine team fouls, compared to Kentucky’s seven. If the Wildcats keep attacking, they could take control at the free-throw line.

It’s shaping up to be a thrilling finish in Austin. Can Kentucky put together a complete 40 minutes and secure the road win? Or will Texas rally in front of their home crowd? Stay tuned.

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