In Austin, Texas, Aaliyah Moore showcased an inspiring return to form, overcoming a challenging previous season marred by a torn anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee and battling tendinitis in the other. Moore’s resilience was on full display as she equaled her career-high score of 21 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and executed a crucial defensive play in the fourth quarter. Her stellar performance propelled the No. 1 seed Texas to a 65-54 victory over Alabama in the second round of the women’s NCAA Tournament.
“My team relied on me today,” Moore shared, reflecting on her significant 34-minute playtime, a stark contrast to her limited one-minute appearance in the second half against Drexel on Friday. Her strategic approach to the game, prioritizing rest and treatment, ensured she was battle-ready.
This victory marks a historic achievement for Texas (32-4), recording its most wins since the 1987-88 season when it finished 32-3. Freshman sensation Madison Booker also shone brightly, scoring 21 points. Booker, donning No. 35 in tribute to former Longhorn Kevin Durant, who was present at the game, expressed her appreciation for his support. Moore echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the encouragement and the footwear gifts from Durant.
The game also highlighted the contributions of DeYona Gaston, who scored seven of her nine points and secured six rebounds in the second half, and Taylor Jones, who was pivotal in defense with four of Texas’ 11 blocked shots. Despite a concerning moment when Jones left the game due to a fall, she made a valiant return in the second quarter.
Alabama (24-10), despite the efforts of Sarah Ashlee Barker and Aaliyah Nye, struggled against Texas’ defensive prowess. Barker, closely guarded by Moore, and Nye, marked by Shay Holle, faced challenges in finding their rhythm, a testament to Texas’ defensive strategy.
Texas coach Vic Schaefer praised his team’s defensive effort, emphasizing the importance of playing with heart against a formidable opponent like Alabama. Moore’s unexpected three-pointer and her pivotal block early in the fourth quarter underscored Texas’ determined and athletic play, a response to Schaefer’s challenge to match the physicality and athleticism of their SEC opponents.
Alabama’s coach, Kristy Curry, acknowledged the difficulty posed by Texas’ size, which was evident in the game’s statistics. Texas dominated in rebounds, second-chance points, points in the paint, and blocks, showcasing their strength and depth.
As Texas advances to face the winner of the Utah-Gonzaga game in the Sweet 16 in Portland, Oregon, their performance against Alabama sends a strong message about their resilience, teamwork, and the strategic prowess that continues to define their journey in the NCAA Tournament.