Story by
Texas a Cinderella? No way, just a hot March Madness team at right time
- Story by
- Texas a Cinderella? No way, just a hot March Madness team at right time
PORTLAND, OR — Do you know that feeling when trying on clothes and physically, it fits, but really it doesn't?
There's just something off. Maybe it doesn't look good. Maybe it's not the right style. Maybe there really isn't a reason, other than it just isn't right.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
That's exactly what's going on in the NCAA Tournament .
A spectacle that is built on chaos hasn't had much of it, with the 2026 edition producing just four double-digit first round winners. Only one of them is moving onto the Sweet 16 , meaning we'll get a single Cinderella.
And who will be the lucky one riding the carriage? Texas ?
Oh, that's no Cinderella.
In March Madness, one size does not in fact fit all.
"I don't think we ever really want to sign up to be the Cinderella story," said Texas coach Sean Miller. "Because we are the University of Texas."
Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrates after making a shot against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Tramon Mark #12, Jordan Pope #0, and Nic Codie #10 of the Texas Longhorns celebrate against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Matas Vokietaitis #8 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Graham Ike #15 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Mario Saint-Supery #17 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Jordan Pope #0 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs attempts a shot while being guarded by Chendall Weaver #2 of the Texas Longhorns during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Nic Codie #10 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Mario Saint-Supery #17 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Jordan Pope #0 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball while being guarded by Mario Saint-Supery #17 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Tyon Grant-Foster #7 and Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball while being guarded by Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OREGON - MARCH 21: Dailyn Swain #3 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Emmanuel Innocenti #5 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Head coach Sean Miller of the Texas Longhorns reacts to an official against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Dailyn Swain #3 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball while being guarded by Emmanuel Innocenti #5 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Jalen Warley #8 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Dailyn Swain #3 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Nic Codie #10 and Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrate after beating the Gonzaga Bulldogs 74-68 in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Nic Codie #10 and Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrate after beating the Gonzaga Bulldogs 74-68 in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Nic Codie #10 of the Texas Longhorns celebrates after beating the Gonzaga Bulldogs 74-68 in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Anthon McDermott #33 and Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrate after beating the Gonzaga Bulldogs 74-68 in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Nic Codie #10 and Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrate after beating the Gonzaga Bulldogs 74-68 in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Tyon Grant-Foster #7 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball while being guarded by Jalen Warley #8 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Jalen Warley #8 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Head coach Sean Miller of the Texas Longhorns looks on against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Simeon Wilcher #7 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball while being guarded by Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs looks on against the Texas Longhorns during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Jordan Pope #0 of the Texas Longhorns celebrates after making a shot against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Dailyn Swain #3 of the Texas Longhorns dunks the ball against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Head coach Sean Miller of the Texas Longhorns reacts to an official against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Tyon Grant-Foster #7 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Dailyn Swain #3 of the Texas Longhorns dunks the ball against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrates after making a shot against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
1
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrates after making a shot against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
1
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrates after making a shot against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
2
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Tramon Mark #12, Jordan Pope #0, and Nic Codie #10 of the Texas Longhorns celebrate against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
3
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Matas Vokietaitis #8 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Graham Ike #15 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
4
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Mario Saint-Supery #17 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
5
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Jordan Pope #0 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
6
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs attempts a shot while being guarded by Chendall Weaver #2 of the Texas Longhorns during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
7
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Nic Codie #10 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Mario Saint-Supery #17 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
8
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Jordan Pope #0 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball while being guarded by Mario Saint-Supery #17 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
9
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Tyon Grant-Foster #7 and Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
10
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball while being guarded by Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
11
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
PORTLAND, OREGON - MARCH 21: Dailyn Swain #3 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Emmanuel Innocenti #5 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
12
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Head coach Sean Miller of the Texas Longhorns reacts to an official against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
13
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Dailyn Swain #3 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball while being guarded by Emmanuel Innocenti #5 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
14
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Jalen Warley #8 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
15
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Dailyn Swain #3 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
16
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Nic Codie #10 and Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrate after beating the Gonzaga Bulldogs 74-68 in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
17
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Nic Codie #10 and Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrate after beating the Gonzaga Bulldogs 74-68 in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
18
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Nic Codie #10 of the Texas Longhorns celebrates after beating the Gonzaga Bulldogs 74-68 in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
19
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Anthon McDermott #33 and Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrate after beating the Gonzaga Bulldogs 74-68 in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
20
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Nic Codie #10 and Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrate after beating the Gonzaga Bulldogs 74-68 in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
21
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Tyon Grant-Foster #7 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
22
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball while being guarded by Jalen Warley #8 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
23
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Jalen Warley #8 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
24
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Head coach Sean Miller of the Texas Longhorns looks on against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
25
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
26
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Simeon Wilcher #7 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles the ball while being guarded by Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
27
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Davis Fogle #4 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs looks on against the Texas Longhorns during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
28
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Jordan Pope #0 of the Texas Longhorns celebrates after making a shot against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
29
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Dailyn Swain #3 of the Texas Longhorns dunks the ball against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
30
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Head coach Sean Miller of the Texas Longhorns reacts to an official against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
31
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns attempts a shot while being guarded by Tyon Grant-Foster #7 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
32
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Dailyn Swain #3 of the Texas Longhorns dunks the ball against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
33
/33
Texas stuns Gonzaga to clinch Sweet 16 berth in NCAA Tournament
Camden Heide #5 of the Texas Longhorns celebrates after making a shot against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Moda Center on March 21, 2026 in Portland, Oregon.
(Soobum Im, Getty Images)
It's a puzzling juxtaposition: the tournament always calls for an underdog to root for, but you can't be much of one when you – checks notes – recorded $331.9 million in operating revenues and $325 million in operating expenses in the 2024 fiscal year.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Even though this was its 11th NCAA Tournament win as a double-digit seed, Texas is so far from a Cinderella, one could argue it's the evil stepsister.
To their credit, the Longhorns tried to not be one. They just weren't really successful at it. Sure it had some notable wins but it also: lost to Duke in the season opener, finished sixth in a not-so-loaded Maui Invitational, had a 8-9 Quad 1 record to go along with 1-4 Quad 2 mark and a Quad 3 loss.
"In some ways, the first couple of months of our season were very much a work in progress," Miller said.
Texas limped into the tournament with a three-game losing streak that pushed them into having to play in the First Four. Not ideal, but it did something that you never want to give teams with potential: an opportunity.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
"We had a players-only meeting, and we just talked about that we just needed a chance," said Texas guard Dailyn Swain.
A chance Texas has taken full advantage of. The Longhorns edged NC State in the First Four, completely outperformed AJ Dybantsa and BYU in the first round and on Saturday night in Portland, were one step ahead of a veteran Gonzaga squad playing in its own backyard.
It's not so much a Cinderella, but a team playing up to the capabilities and expectations set on them. It just so happens there's a little No. 11 right next to their name.
"We're all adults here in this room," said Gonzaga coach Mark Few. "Some of these monikers we put on everybody from Cinderella to blue bloods and all that, I have a hell of a time understanding it. I mean, they make literally no sense.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
"That is not a Cinderella team. That's a really talented basketball team with a really, really, really good coach, that has incredible resources and has a great history of doing great things in the tournament. That's just a 11-seed that had some tough losses during the year," he added.
Iowa State Cyclones fans cheer against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Enterprise Center on March 22, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri.
Kansas Jayhawks cheerleaders perform before a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the St. John's Red Storm at Viejas Arena on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, Calif.
(Denis Poroy, Imagn Images)
Nebraska's Berke Buyuktuncel celebrates with fans following a second-round game in the NCAA men's basketball tournament between Nebraska Cornhuskers and Vanderbilt Commodores at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City on March 21, 2026.
Arkansas Razorbacks cheerleaders in the second half against the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Ore.
VCU Rams fans react after a 3-pointer by Terrence Hill Jr. #6 of the VCU Rams in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, SC.
(Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images)
Howard Bison cheerleaders perform during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Michigan Wolverines at Keybank Center on Mar 19, 2026 in Buffalo, NY.
(Mark Konezny, Imagn Images)
BYU Cougars cheerleader in the second half against the Texas Longhorns during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center on Mar 19, 2026 in Portland, Ore.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
Former North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Roy Williams is seen in the crowd against the VCU Rams in the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on Mar 19, 2026 in Greenville, SC.
(Bob Donnan, Imagn Images)
Texas A&M Aggies cheerleaders during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Paycom Center on March 19, 2026 in Oklahoma City.
(William Purnell, Imagn Images)
Texas Longhorns band in the first half against the BYU Cougars during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center on Mar 19, 2026 in Portland.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
St. John's Red Storm mascot Johnny Thunder mixes with players prior to taking the court during practice day ahead of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 19, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
A Texas Christian University Horned Frogs cheerleader practices before the game during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, SC.
The High Point Panthers fans cheer during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Wisconsin Badgers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Troy Wayrynen, Imagn Images)
The High Point Panthers cheerleaders react during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Wisconsin Badgers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Troy Wayrynen, Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images)
The North Dakota State Bison mascot and cheerleaders pose for a photo before the game against the Michigan State Spartans during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center on March 19, 2026 in Buffalo, NY
(Gregory Fisher, Imagn Images)
Nebraska Cornhuskers fans cheer after defeating the Troy Trojans during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Paycom Center on March 19, 2026 in Oklahoma City.
(Alonzo Adams, Imagn Images)
The Wisconsin Badgers mascot performs during a time out during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the High Point Panthers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
A view of Buddy the Street Dog as Queens University of Charlotte Royals guard Yoav Berman talks to the media during a practice session ahead of the first round of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Enterprise Center in St. Louis on March 19, 2026.
(Jeff Le, Imagn Images)
The High Point Panthers band performs prior to a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Wisconsin Badgers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
High Point Panthers fans cheer prior to a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Wisconsin Badgers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
The Wisconsin Badgers cheerleaders preform during the first half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the High Point Panthers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
The South Florida Bulls mascot performs during the second half against the Louisville Cardinals during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center on March 19, 2026 in Buffalo, NY.
(Mark Konezny, Imagn Images)
The Texas Christian University Horned Frogs cheerleaders perform in the first half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, SC.
(Jim Dedmon, Imagn Images)
The Troy Trojans mascot dances on the floor during the second half against the Nebraska Cornhuskers during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Paycom Center on March 19, 2026 in Oklahoma City.
(William Purnell, William Purnell-Imagn Images)
The UCF Knights band performs during a practice session ahead of the first round of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 19, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Bill Streicher, Imagn Images)
Nebraska Cornhuskers cheerleaders perform during the second half against the Troy Trojans during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Paycom Center on March 19, 2026 in Oklahoma City.
(William Purnell, Imagn Images)
A Wisconsin Badgers cheerleader performs during the first half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the High Point Panthers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
The Ohio State Buckeyes cheerleaders perform in the second half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, SC.
(Bob Donnan, Imagn Images)
Akron Zips fans in the first half against the Texas Tech Red Raiders during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena on March 20, 2026 in Tampa, Fla.
(Matt Pendleton, Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images)
Texas Tech Red Raiders cheerleaders in the first half against the Akron Zips during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena on March 20, 2026 in Tampa, Fla.
(Nathan Ray Seebeck, Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images)
Santa Clara Broncos fans react to game play against the Kentucky Wildcats during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Enterprise Center on March 20, 2026 in St. Louis, MO.
(Jeff Le, Jeff Le-Imagn Images)
Akron Zips cheerleaders and mascot in the second half against the Texas Tech Red Raiders during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena on March 20, 2026 in Tampa, Fla.
(Matt Pendleton, Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images)
Wright State Raiders fans celebrate after a Wright State Raiders guard TJ Burch (22) scores during the second half against the Virginia Cavaliers during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 20, 2026 in Philadelphia, PA.
(Bill Streicher, Bill Streicher-Imagn Images)
Hofstra Pride cheerleaders in the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena on March 20, 2026 in Tampa, Fla.
(Matt Pendleton, Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images)
Garth Noble of the Louisville pep band is amped at the 2026 NCAA Women's March Madness basketball tournament at the KFC Yum Center In Louisville, Kentucky. March 21, 2026.
(Matt Stone/Courier Journal)
Michigan head coach Dusty May high-fives players after 95-72 win over Saint Louis at the NCAA Tournament Second Round at KeyBank Center in Buffalo on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
(Junfu Han, USA TODAY NETWORK)
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish band and spirit squad cheer during the first round of the NCAA women's basketball tournament against the Fairfield Stags at Ohio State's Schottenstein Center in Columbus on March 21, 2026.
(Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch)
1
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Iowa State Cyclones fans cheer against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Enterprise Center on March 22, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri.
1
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Iowa State Cyclones fans cheer against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Enterprise Center on March 22, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri.
2
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Kansas Jayhawks cheerleaders perform before a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the St. John's Red Storm at Viejas Arena on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, Calif.
(Denis Poroy, Imagn Images)
3
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Nebraska's Berke Buyuktuncel celebrates with fans following a second-round game in the NCAA men's basketball tournament between Nebraska Cornhuskers and Vanderbilt Commodores at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City on March 21, 2026.
4
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Arkansas Razorbacks cheerleaders in the second half against the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Ore.
5
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
VCU Rams fans react after a 3-pointer by Terrence Hill Jr. #6 of the VCU Rams in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, SC.
(Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images)
6
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Howard Bison cheerleaders perform during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Michigan Wolverines at Keybank Center on Mar 19, 2026 in Buffalo, NY.
(Mark Konezny, Imagn Images)
7
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
BYU Cougars cheerleader in the second half against the Texas Longhorns during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center on Mar 19, 2026 in Portland, Ore.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
8
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Former North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Roy Williams is seen in the crowd against the VCU Rams in the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on Mar 19, 2026 in Greenville, SC.
(Bob Donnan, Imagn Images)
9
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Texas A&M Aggies cheerleaders during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Paycom Center on March 19, 2026 in Oklahoma City.
(William Purnell, Imagn Images)
10
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Texas Longhorns band in the first half against the BYU Cougars during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center on Mar 19, 2026 in Portland.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
11
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
St. John's Red Storm mascot Johnny Thunder mixes with players prior to taking the court during practice day ahead of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 19, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
12
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
A Texas Christian University Horned Frogs cheerleader practices before the game during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, SC.
13
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The High Point Panthers fans cheer during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Wisconsin Badgers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Troy Wayrynen, Imagn Images)
14
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The High Point Panthers cheerleaders react during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Wisconsin Badgers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Troy Wayrynen, Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images)
15
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The North Dakota State Bison mascot and cheerleaders pose for a photo before the game against the Michigan State Spartans during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center on March 19, 2026 in Buffalo, NY
(Gregory Fisher, Imagn Images)
16
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Nebraska Cornhuskers fans cheer after defeating the Troy Trojans during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Paycom Center on March 19, 2026 in Oklahoma City.
(Alonzo Adams, Imagn Images)
17
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The Wisconsin Badgers mascot performs during a time out during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the High Point Panthers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
18
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
A view of Buddy the Street Dog as Queens University of Charlotte Royals guard Yoav Berman talks to the media during a practice session ahead of the first round of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Enterprise Center in St. Louis on March 19, 2026.
(Jeff Le, Imagn Images)
19
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The High Point Panthers band performs prior to a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Wisconsin Badgers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
20
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
High Point Panthers fans cheer prior to a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Wisconsin Badgers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
21
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The Wisconsin Badgers cheerleaders preform during the first half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the High Point Panthers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
22
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The South Florida Bulls mascot performs during the second half against the Louisville Cardinals during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center on March 19, 2026 in Buffalo, NY.
(Mark Konezny, Imagn Images)
23
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The Texas Christian University Horned Frogs cheerleaders perform in the first half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, SC.
(Jim Dedmon, Imagn Images)
24
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The Troy Trojans mascot dances on the floor during the second half against the Nebraska Cornhuskers during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Paycom Center on March 19, 2026 in Oklahoma City.
(William Purnell, William Purnell-Imagn Images)
25
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The UCF Knights band performs during a practice session ahead of the first round of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 19, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Bill Streicher, Imagn Images)
26
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Nebraska Cornhuskers cheerleaders perform during the second half against the Troy Trojans during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Paycom Center on March 19, 2026 in Oklahoma City.
(William Purnell, Imagn Images)
27
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
A Wisconsin Badgers cheerleader performs during the first half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the High Point Panthers at Moda Center on March 19, 2026 in Portland, Or.
(Craig Strobeck, Imagn Images)
28
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The Ohio State Buckeyes cheerleaders perform in the second half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, SC.
(Bob Donnan, Imagn Images)
29
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Akron Zips fans in the first half against the Texas Tech Red Raiders during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena on March 20, 2026 in Tampa, Fla.
(Matt Pendleton, Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images)
30
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Texas Tech Red Raiders cheerleaders in the first half against the Akron Zips during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena on March 20, 2026 in Tampa, Fla.
(Nathan Ray Seebeck, Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images)
31
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Santa Clara Broncos fans react to game play against the Kentucky Wildcats during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Enterprise Center on March 20, 2026 in St. Louis, MO.
(Jeff Le, Jeff Le-Imagn Images)
32
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Akron Zips cheerleaders and mascot in the second half against the Texas Tech Red Raiders during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena on March 20, 2026 in Tampa, Fla.
(Matt Pendleton, Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images)
33
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Wright State Raiders fans celebrate after a Wright State Raiders guard TJ Burch (22) scores during the second half against the Virginia Cavaliers during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 20, 2026 in Philadelphia, PA.
(Bill Streicher, Bill Streicher-Imagn Images)
34
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Hofstra Pride cheerleaders in the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena on March 20, 2026 in Tampa, Fla.
(Matt Pendleton, Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images)
35
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Garth Noble of the Louisville pep band is amped at the 2026 NCAA Women's March Madness basketball tournament at the KFC Yum Center In Louisville, Kentucky. March 21, 2026.
(Matt Stone/Courier Journal)
36
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
Michigan head coach Dusty May high-fives players after 95-72 win over Saint Louis at the NCAA Tournament Second Round at KeyBank Center in Buffalo on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
(Junfu Han, USA TODAY NETWORK)
37
/37
See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish band and spirit squad cheer during the first round of the NCAA women's basketball tournament against the Fairfield Stags at Ohio State's Schottenstein Center in Columbus on March 21, 2026.
(Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch)
The result might say something larger about the state of Cinderellas. This will now be back-to-back years without them.
Yes, Texas ensures that there will be a double-digit seed in the Sweet 16, which has happened in every tournament except 2007 since expanding in 1985. But last year's representative was Arkansas, a program that threw $7 million at John Calipari to get him to leave Kentucky. The one before that barely counts because at the end of the day, NC State is an ACC team with a rich history.
While we frantically wonder if the mid-majors are truly toast from making deep runs in the Big Dance, you do have to give Texas credit. The expectation isn't for Texas to lose 14 games in a season, but it is expected to do exactly what it's doing right now. This is not the same team that lost five of its last six games heading into Selection Sunday.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Jordan Pope is playing like the elite guard expected when he transferred from Oregon State in 2024. Matas Vokietaitis is completely commanding the interior, dominating any big man that dares get in his way. Sean Miller is showing why this will be ninth Sweet 16 trip, deciding to put in Camden Heide to hit the 3-point dagger against the Bulldogs. This looks like a real SEC contender.
The road to it wasn't pretty, and that's what makes Texas a great story. It figured it out at the right time when a lot of people counted them out. It makes them easy to root for. The Longhorns should celebrate this and have the mindset of a giant slayer when it arrives at the Sweet 16.
They have all the makings of it, but still, don't try to fit the glass slipper on Bevo.
"Sometimes the lessons you've learned along the way strengthen you. We're a much better team right now than we would have been a month ago. I think we're playing our best, everybody wants to play their best in March, and we just so happen to do it," Miller said. "Hopefully we can keep going."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Texas a March Madness Cinderella? Nope, just hot Sweet 16 team at right time
