Michael Allen 
Talaysia Cooper (55) knocks down a three pointer to cut the Texas lead to 1, but ultimately Tennessee falls 65-63 to the Longhorns on Sunday
SEO Meta Description: Tennessee battled back but came up just short in a 65-63 loss to No. 4 Texas, led by Talaysia Cooper’s 29-point performance at Food City Center.
Tennessee delivered a spirited performance Sunday afternoon at the Food City Center but fell just short in a 65-63 loss to No. 4 Texas. The close contest marked a major improvement from last week’s 43-point defeat to the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball and gives the Lady Vols their third conference loss with only a few weeks remaining before the SEC Tournament.
Back-and-Forth Start, Texas Surge
The game opened with both teams trading baskets, with Tennessee holding a narrow 14-12 lead late in the first quarter. Texas responded with a decisive 12-2 run to close the period and carried that momentum into the second quarter.
A key sequence highlighted Tennessee’s early struggles. After a turnover by Talaysia Cooper, Teya Sidberry forced the issue defensively. Though she missed a fast-break layup, Jordan Lee followed with a putback as Tennessee failed to recover defensively.
That moment prompted an emotional timeout from head coach Kim Caldwell, who challenged Cooper’s effort — a turning point that ignited Tennessee.
Lady Vols Fight Back Before Halftime
Tennessee responded with energy, closing the second quarter on an 18-6 run to tie the game at halftime. Cooper fueled the surge with 10 points in the period, sparking life into the Lady Vols after Texas had briefly threatened to take control.
Heavyweight Third Quarter, Late Texas Push
The third quarter resembled a prizefight, with both teams trading scoring runs and defensive stops. Texas pushed its lead to five at one point, but Tennessee trimmed the deficit to 50-47 entering the fourth.
Texas stretched the margin to 10 midway through the final period, appearing ready to pull away. But Tennessee refused to fold.
Dramatic Finish Comes Up Short
Out of a timeout, Tennessee surged with an 11-2 run. Janiah Barker hit key free throws and a three-pointer, while Cooper buried two triples to cut the deficit to one.
Momentum shifted again when Barker fouled out following a disputed call. Madison Booker converted two free throws to extend Texas’ lead to three with 16 seconds remaining.
Cooper quickly answered with a driving layup, and Tennessee forced another trip to the line. Lee split her free throws, giving the Lady Vols one final chance down two. Cooper drove the lane in the closing seconds but had the ball stripped as time expired.
Key Performances and Stat Difference
Cooper delivered arguably her best performance of the season, scoring a game-high 29 points on 12-of-19 shooting. Barker added 12 points, while Nya Robertson chipped in 11.
The biggest difference came at the free-throw line. Tennessee went just 5-of-11, while Texas converted 17-of-23 — a margin that ultimately proved decisive.
What’s Next
Tennessee faces a quick turnaround, traveling to Oxford on Tuesday night to take on the No. 17 Ole Miss Rebels women’s basketball. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. ET, with the game airing on ESPNU.
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