5 Reasons Why Texas Longhorns Will Make the 2015 NCAA Tournament

By Jerry Landry

5 Reasons Why Texas Longhorns Will Make the 2015 NCAA Tournament

Texas Longhorns basketball NCAA Tournament hopes Isaiah Taylor Jonathan Holmes — It’s a Texas-sized longshot, but you have to understand, Rick Barnes does not miss NCAA tournaments with the Texas Longhorns. Well, okay, he missed once following the 2013-14 season, but it was the only time in his tenure at Texas, which is ridiculously remarkable. Here are five reasons why Rick Barnes solidifies a new tournament streak for 2015.

5. The Big 12 Is A Tough Conference

Kansas Jayhawks basketball crazy fans

5. The Big 12 Is A Tough Conference

Kansas Jayhawks basketball crazy fans — Many experts have the Big 12 earning eight tournament bids. Right now, Texas holds the No. 8 spot, but Kansas State sits just one game ahead of them and holds a weaker résumé.

4. Rick Barnes

Rick Barnes Texas Longhorns basketball head coach NCAA Tournament appearance

4. Rick Barnes

Rick Barnes Texas Longhorns basketball head coach NCAA Tournament appearance — As alluded to, Rick Barnes has qualified for the NCAA tournament in every year except one during his time with Texas. He began his Longhorn reign scoring 14 consecutive bids to the Big Dance, and recovered nicely last year as he returned to the tournament following a one-year absence.

3. More Impact Games Ahead

Kansas Jayhawks basketball Texas Longhorns rivalry

3. More Impact Games Ahead

Kansas Jayhawks basketball Texas Longhorns rivalry — The Longhorns still have the Kansas State Wildcats to close out the regular season, and then it’s on to the Big 12 tournament. If the Big 12 is truly the NCAA’s toughest conference, then swiping a few wins over the final weekend would slot Texas into the field of 68.

2. Jonathan Holmes Is A Senior

Texas Longhorns men's basketball Jonathan Holmes Senior NCAA Tournament

2. Jonathan Holmes Is A Senior

Texas Longhorns men's basketball Jonathan Holmes Senior NCAA Tournament — I doubt the Longhorns’ third-leading scorer wants to play his last game in the NIT. Look for Texas’ star forward to transcend over the next two-plus games and carry the Longhorns with his elevated play.

1. Texas Meets the Numbers That the Committee Loves

Rick Barnes Texas Longhorns NCAA Tournament Resume

1. Texas Meets the Numbers That the Committee Loves

Rick Barnes Texas Longhorns NCAA Tournament Resume — The Longhorns are 39th in RPI with the ninth toughest strength of schedule. Barring the collapse of two straight losses to close the season, the committee must hold these metrics in high regard and award Texas a tournament berth.

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