Texas Longhorns Host Ole Miss Rebels in SEC Matchup

Former Texas coach Chris Beard returns to Moody Center for first time since controversial firing in 2023

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The Texas Longhorns (14-9, 5-5) will host the Ole Miss Rebels (11-11, 3-6) on Saturday afternoon in an SEC basketball matchup. The Longhorns are coming off a win over South Carolina, while the Rebels, led by former Texas coach Chris Beard, will be looking to keep their NCAA Tournament hopes alive with a much-needed victory.

Why it matters

This game marks the first time Chris Beard has returned to the Moody Center since his controversial firing as Texas' head coach in 2023. Beard's departure from the program was a major storyline, and this matchup will undoubtedly have added drama and intrigue as a result.

The details

The Longhorns enter the game with a 14-9 overall record and a 5-5 mark in SEC play, while the Rebels sit at 11-11 on the season and 3-6 in conference. Texas is coming off a win over South Carolina earlier in the week, while Ole Miss will be desperate for a victory to keep their NCAA Tournament aspirations alive.

  • The game will take place on Saturday afternoon.
  • Chris Beard was fired as Texas' head coach in 2023.

The players

Chris Beard

The current head coach of the Ole Miss Rebels, Beard previously served as the head coach of the Texas Longhorns before being fired in 2023.

Texas Longhorns

The men's basketball team of the University of Texas, competing in the SEC conference.

Ole Miss Rebels

The men's basketball team of the University of Mississippi, competing in the SEC conference.

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What they’re saying

“This is going to be an emotional game for me, returning to the Moody Center for the first time since my departure. But I'm focused on helping my team get a much-needed win to keep our NCAA Tournament hopes alive.”

— Chris Beard, Head Coach, Ole Miss Rebels (ESPN)

What’s next

The winner of this game will take a step closer to securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament, while the loser will face an uphill battle to make the field of 68.

The takeaway

This matchup between Texas and Ole Miss carries added significance due to the return of former Longhorns coach Chris Beard. The game will undoubtedly have an intense atmosphere as both teams look to bolster their postseason aspirations.