For the second straight year the Texas Longhorns had to use extra time to play the Baylor Bears in Waco. The Bears defeated the Longhorns 86-79 in overtime. Almost in a replay of last year’s game the Bears jumped to an lead and Texas came back, but fell behind 40-31 to end the first half.
Texas held Baylor to without a FG in the first eight minutes and 50 seconds of the second half. Baylor shot 23.3 percent (7-of-30) in the second half. During that stretch the Longhorns were able to tie the game at 48 with 11:11:34 left.
Sheldon McClellan reached double-figure points for the 16th consecutive game (21 points) on 9-of-19 shooting and nine assists. Javan Felix recorded career highs in points (26), field goals made (11) and field goals attempted (23). It is the Felix’s fifth double-figure game and second 20-point game. Felix entered the game as the Big 12 leader is assists (6.4 assists per game).
Texas shot 44.6 percent to Baylor's 35.9 field goal percentage. Texas leads the nation in FG percentage defense (.339) while holding 11 of its 14 opponent to under 40 percent FG shooting. Prince Ibeh recorded three blocks and scored six points in just 16 minutes played.
Cory Jefferson scored 25 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and made the tiebreaking free throws with 50 seconds left in overtime as Baylor opened Big 12 Conference play. Pierre Jackson added 24 points for the Bears (9-4). Jefferson and Jackson combined to score all but one of Baylor's 18 points in overtime. Jackson had 11 of them, including nine free throws.
The Longhorns are trying to survive until Myck Kabongo returns to the team from his NCAA suspension on February 13. Kabongo was suspended by the National Collegiate Athletic Association for receiving improper benefits. He was suspended for the entire season, but the University appealed on his behalf and the suspension was reduced.
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