Texas Women’s Basketball Returns to No. 1 in the AP Poll After 21 Years
In a historic achievement that echoes the pride and passion of the state, the University of Texas women’s basketball team has claimed the top spot in the Associated Press (AP) poll for the first time in 21 years. This milestone not only marks a significant moment in the program’s rich history but also highlights the resurgence of Texas women’s basketball on the national stage. The program, led by head coach Vic Schaefer, has consistently been a powerhouse in collegiate women’s basketball, but this achievement represents a new era for the Longhorns as they solidify their place as one of the elite programs in the nation.
A Long Road to the Top
Texas women’s basketball has a storied history, having achieved sustained success for decades. However, it has been more than two decades since the Longhorns sat at the top of the AP poll, a position they held previously in 2004. The road to the top has not been without its challenges. Following that peak in 2004, the program underwent several years of ups and downs, with coaching changes, roster turnover, and struggles in both conference and national competition.
Yet, through it all, the Longhorns maintained a strong foundation. The program’s resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to its commitment to excellence. Over the years, Texas continued to recruit top-tier talent, develop players, and compete at a high level. Though they often found themselves just short of the ultimate goal, the Longhorns never stopped striving for the championship.
In recent years, under the leadership of Schaefer, who became the head coach in 2020, Texas has seen a renaissance. Schaefer, who previously led Mississippi State to two Final Fours, brought a wealth of experience, a defensive-minded philosophy, and a winning mentality to Austin. His impact was felt almost immediately, as the team showed significant improvement on both ends of the court, steadily climbing the rankings. However, it wasn’t until this season that the Longhorns found themselves back at the top of the mountain, reaching No. 1 in the nation for the first time in over two decades.
The 2024-2025 Season: A Breakout Year
The 2024-2025 season has been one of tremendous growth and success for Texas. The Longhorns started the season with a bang, securing key victories against top-ranked opponents in non-conference play. With a combination of stellar performances from both returning players and new recruits, the team quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with.
One of the key contributors to Texas’ rise has been junior guard Rori Harmon. Harmon has been exceptional on both sides of the ball, providing the team with scoring, playmaking, and leadership. Her ability to drive to the basket, knock down clutch shots, and lock down opposing players on defense has made her one of the best players in the country. Alongside Harmon, senior forward Taylor Jones has stepped up as a consistent and reliable presence in the paint. Jones’ rebounding, shot-blocking ability, and scoring inside have been crucial to Texas’ success.
Additionally, the Longhorns have benefitted from the strong performances of freshman forward Abbie Wolf. Wolf’s versatility and ability to stretch the floor with her shooting ability have added a new dimension to the team’s offense, making them even more dangerous. As a team, Texas has been strong on both sides of the floor, ranking among the nation’s best in defense while also showcasing a high-powered offense capable of scoring from all areas.
The depth of the team has also been a crucial factor in their rise. Schaefer has been able to rely on a well-balanced roster, with numerous players stepping up when needed. The team’s chemistry and unselfish ball movement have allowed them to play team-oriented basketball, with multiple players capable of leading the team in scoring on any given night.
Texas’ remarkable turnaround can also be attributed to the culture that Schaefer has instilled within the program. His emphasis on discipline, work ethic, and accountability has created an environment where players are held to the highest standards, both on and off the court. This commitment to excellence has led to a cohesive unit that has been able to perform at a consistently high level.
The Road to No. 1: Key Moments
Several key moments throughout the 2024-2025 season have played a pivotal role in Texas’ ascent to the top of the AP poll. One such moment came in a thrilling victory over a top-ranked opponent during a marquee game early in the season. That win, which showcased the Longhorns’ poise and ability to execute in crunch time, served as a statement to the rest of the country that Texas was a team to be feared.
Another defining moment came in the Big 12 Conference, where the Longhorns faced their toughest competition of the season. A gritty, hard-fought win on the road against a top-ranked rival showed the team’s resolve and ability to win in hostile environments. It was a victory that not only solidified their standing atop the rankings but also reinforced their belief in their ability to compete with the best in the nation.
The culmination of these moments, along with consistent performances and a strong team dynamic, helped propel Texas to the No. 1 spot in the AP poll. By maintaining their focus, executing their game plans, and never wavering in their pursuit of excellence, the Longhorns were able to rise to the pinnacle of women’s college basketball.
The Importance of the No. 1 Ranking
For the Texas women’s basketball program, achieving the No. 1 ranking is a significant achievement in itself. It is a validation of the hard work, dedication, and commitment of the players, coaches, and staff who have put in countless hours to get the program to this point. It also serves as recognition of the program’s return to national prominence after a period of relative dormancy.
Being ranked No. 1 brings with it a level of prestige and recognition that can have a lasting impact on the program. It opens doors for recruiting, as the Longhorns can now attract some of the best young talent in the country. Additionally, the exposure that comes with being at the top of the rankings puts Texas women’s basketball on the national stage, bringing attention to the team and helping to elevate the profile of the program.
Perhaps most importantly, the No. 1 ranking serves as a source of pride for the players and the Longhorn community. For the athletes, it is a testament to their hard work and determination. For fans, it is a moment to celebrate and rally behind a team that has worked tirelessly to get back to the top. And for the entire University of Texas, it is a reflection of the university’s commitment to excellence in all areas, including women’s athletics.
Looking Ahead: The Road to the NCAA Tournament
With the No. 1 ranking in hand, the Texas women’s basketball team now shifts its focus to the NCAA tournament. While the ranking is an impressive accomplishment, it is ultimately the postseason that matters most. The Longhorns are determined to make a deep run in the tournament and claim the program’s first NCAA championship since 1986.
The road to a national title will be challenging, with many formidable opponents standing in their way. However, Texas has shown that it has the talent, depth, and mental toughness to compete with the best teams in the country. As the tournament draws nearer, the Longhorns will look to build on their success, refine their game plan, and stay focused on their ultimate goal.
One of the keys to their success in the tournament will be the leadership of coach Schaefer. His experience in high-pressure situations, particularly during his time at Mississippi State, will be invaluable as the team faces the intense competition of March Madness. Schaefer has a proven track record of success in the NCAA tournament, and his ability to navigate the ups and downs of the postseason will be crucial to Texas’ chances of winning it all.
For the players, the pressure of being ranked No. 1 may create added expectations, but it also serves as a motivation to prove that they belong at the top. With Harmon, Jones, and the rest of the team leading the way, Texas will be poised to make a serious push for the national championship.