Texas and TCU Face Off in Historic Elite Eight Clash

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — No. 1 seed Texas will battle No. 2 seed TCU tonight for a coveted spot in the women’s Final Four in a critical Elite Eight matchup. The game is set to tip off at 7 PM ET at Legacy Arena at the BJCC.

Texas advanced to this stage after defeating SEC rival Tennessee 67-59, while TCU is enjoying a remarkable season, recently securing its first-ever Elite Eight berth after a nail-biting 71-62 win over No. 3 seed Notre Dame.

The Horned Frogs, led by star guard Hailey Van Lith, have made a name with their relentless offense and defensive capabilities. Van Lith, averaging 26 points in the tournament, has been integral to TCU’s success, demonstrating exceptional ballhandling and court vision. Her ability to score both from long range and driving to the basket adds a multifaceted threat that has proven hard for opponents to contain.

“The key is to stay calm, keep moving the ball, and find mismatches on the court,” Van Lith said following TCU’s Sweet 16 victory.

TCU’s center Sedona Prince, towering at 6-foot-7, poses a formidable presence in the paint and is crucial as they prepare to face Texas’s physical defensive game. “Our height and skill give us an edge we plan to use fully in this game,” Prince remarked.

On the other hand, Texas has made adjustments to their strategy as well. Utilizing a smaller, quicker lineup has allowed them to capitalize on speed, which complement their strong inside game. “We’ve found success by combining size with speed without losing our toughness,” Texas head coach Vic Schaefer stated after the victory over Tennessee. “I am pleased with how the team is evolving.”

TCU’s head coach Mark Campbell has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround season, leading the Horned Frogs from missing the NCAA Tournament last year to achieving their Elite Eight milestone this season. “To see how far we’ve come is incredible, but we’re not done yet,” Campbell said.

The teams have contrasting styles; TCU embraces a high-volume shooting approach, averaging 25.3 three-point attempts per game, ranking 26th nationally. In contrast, Texas is known for dominating inside, with fewer than 11 attempts from beyond the arc, placing them last in the nation. This dynamic will set the stage for an intense tactical battle.

Player matchups will also play a critical role in determining the game’s outcome. Texas’s defensive strategy focuses on forcing turnovers, averaging about 21 per game (16th best nationally), while TCU maintains a low turnover average of 12.1. “Controlling the pace and making smart plays will be essential,” TCU’s Van Lith emphasized.

The stakes are high for both teams, not just for advancing in the tournament but also for state pride, as Texas and TCU are traditional rivals. “This is more than just a game—it’s another chapter in our history,” Schaefer noted, highlighting the ongoing rivalry.

The excitement is palpable as fans gear up for what promises to be a thrilling competition. As both teams look to make history, every moment will count as they aim for a place in the Final Four.