Missouri, Texas Clash in Important Bubble Matchup

The Tigers and Longhorns meet in a crucial game that could impact their NCAA Tournament hopes.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Missouri Tigers and Texas Longhorns will face off in a crucial matchup that could have significant implications for their NCAA Tournament aspirations. Both teams are fighting to stay on the right side of the bubble, and this game is being billed as a potential "game of the year" for bubble teams.

Why it matters

This game is a pivotal one for both Missouri and Texas as they look to bolster their NCAA Tournament resumes. A win could go a long way in solidifying their spot in the field, while a loss would deal a major blow to their postseason hopes.

The details

The Tigers are coming off a narrow road win over Texas A&M, while the Longhorns recently defended their home court against Ole Miss. Missouri will be without several key players due to injuries and illness, putting more pressure on their remaining healthy starters to step up. Texas will look to its veteran leadership and balanced scoring attack to secure a crucial road victory.

  • The game will tip off at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • Missouri defeated Texas A&M 86-85 on the road on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
  • Texas defeated Ole Miss 79-68 in their last game on February 11, 2026.

The players

Annor Boateng

A Missouri Tigers guard who is out for the season due to a leg injury.

Jevon Porter

A Missouri Tigers forward who is out due to a leg injury.

Sebastian Mack

A Missouri Tigers guard who is out due to illness.

Lassina Traore

A Texas Longhorns forward who is out for this game.

Dailyn Swain

A Texas Longhorns player who led the team in points, rebounds, and assists in their last game.

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What they’re saying

“Saturday's matchup at Mizzou Arena is so important for both teams that Joe Lunardi of ESPN labeled it as the "game of the day (year?)" for the Tournament bubble.”

— Joe Lunardi, ESPN Bracketologist (SI.com)

What’s next

The winner of this game will take a significant step towards securing an NCAA Tournament berth, while the loser will face an uphill battle to make the field.

The takeaway

This matchup between Missouri and Texas is a crucial game for both teams as they look to solidify their spots on the NCAA Tournament bubble. The outcome could have major implications for their postseason aspirations.