The Texas Longhorns and Syracuse Orange faced off for the first time since their memorable 2003 Final Four clash, but this time, all eyes were on Texas freshman Tre Johnson. In a dramatic showdown at Barclays Center, Johnson showcased his poise, sinking six clutch free throws in the final minute to secure a 70-66 victory in the UKG Legends Classic.
With Syracuse legend Carmelo Anthony watching courtside alongside his son, Kiyan—a recent commit to Syracuse—Johnson solidified his status as Texas basketball’s next big star. Despite a tough shooting night, the freshman’s 16-point performance, capped by his icy composure under pressure, stole the show.
Texas head coach Rodney Terry praised Johnson’s impact, saying, “Tre’s a big-time player. He’s going to learn through these experiences, and I’m telling you, he’s going to close games out for us.”
The game also highlighted Texas’ depth, with Arthur Kaluma and Eddie Lampkin delivering gritty performances. Kaluma posted a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Lampkin added 14 points in what was arguably his best game against Texas. The two battled relentlessly, with both leaving their marks—literally, as Kaluma played through a bloodied forehead.
Fresh off the bench, Chendall Weaver shined in the second half, scoring nine of his 10 points, including a crucial reverse layup late in the game. “Really just working hard,” Weaver said when asked about his offseason improvements. “Teams didn’t respect me as a shooter, so I stayed in the gym all day.”
The Longhorns were further boosted by the debut of Tremon Mark, who contributed six points in 19 minutes after recovering from a right ankle injury. Forward Jayson Kent remained sidelined with a wrist injury but is expected to return soon.
Now 4-1 on the season, Texas eyes the championship game against either Texas Tech or Saint Joseph’s. Coach Terry expressed confidence in Johnson leading the charge again, saying, “I look for Tre Johnson to have a big-time game tomorrow.”
Stay tuned as the Longhorns continue to solidify themselves as contenders with their rising freshman phenom at the helm.
