The Texas Tech vs. Texas basketball game turned chaotic with ejections, technical fouls, and unruly behavior from fans. Find out what happened in this intense rivalry matchup.
Texas Tech vs. Texas: A Fiery Rivalry Ignites
The Texas Tech and Texas basketball rivalry is known for its heated matchups, and the recent game between the two teams was no exception. With ejections, technical fouls, and unruly behavior from fans, tensions quickly escalated at the United Supermarkets Arena in Lubbock.
( Credit to: Theathletic )
The incident that sparked the chaos occurred when Texas Longhorns forward Brock Cunningham was given a Flagrant 2 foul and subsequently ejected from the game. With 10:17 remaining in the second half, Cunningham collided with Texas Tech guard Darrion Williams near the scorer’s table while both players were chasing after a loose ball. This led to a scuffle between players from both teams.
The crowd at United Supermarkets Arena expressed their disapproval by loudly booing Cunningham’s ejection and even started throwing objects onto the court. The situation became so severe that six officers had to escort a spectator out of the arena. As a result of the fan’s behavior, Texas Tech received an administrative technical foul.
Coach McCasland’s Plea for Calm
In an effort to calm the hostile crowd, Texas Tech coach Grant McCasland took to the microphone and pleaded with the fans to stop throwing objects. He warned that any further objects thrown would result in technical fouls for the team. McCasland’s intervention was necessary to restore order and ensure the safety of the players and officials.
Following the chaotic scene, the game resumed, and Texas ultimately emerged victorious with a score of 81-69. This defeat marked the Red Raiders’ third loss in their last four games. McCasland later addressed the incident, expressing his disappointment in the actions of a few individuals that negatively impacted everyone.
Texas coach Rodney Terry commended McCasland for his actions, acknowledging that not all coaches would have taken the same approach. Terry praised McCasland’s character and his willingness to address the unruly behavior in the arena.
Texas Triumphs: Longhorns Secure the Win
The Longhorns improved their record to 18-10 and currently hold the seventh spot in the Big 12 standings. Dylan Disu led the team in scoring with 21 points, contributing to their victory.
Cunningham, who had nine points and seven rebounds before being ejected, left the court amidst a chorus of boos from the Texas Tech crowd. In a defiant gesture, he flashed the “Hook’em Horns” hand sign towards the opposing fans. This act served as a fitting conclusion to a tumultuous edition of the Texas-Texas Tech rivalry.
The Aftermath and Lessons Learned
It remains to be seen how the aftermath of this incident will unfold, but it serves as a reminder of the intense nature of this rivalry and the importance of maintaining sportsmanship and respect both on and off the court.
This game showcased the passion and competitiveness that fuels the Texas Tech vs. Texas rivalry. While emotions ran high, it is crucial to remember that these games should be a display of skill and sportsmanship, rather than unruly behavior and hostility.
As fans, players, and coaches, we must strive to uphold the values of fair play and respect. Let this be a lesson for all involved to channel their passion in a positive way and ensure that future matchups between Texas Tech and Texas are remembered for the thrilling basketball they bring, rather than the chaos that ensued on this particular night.