By: Joseph Jamrosz Oleksak
(Photo/Joseph Jamrosz Oleksak-The Mojo Network)
AUSTIN, Texas — November 3, 2026
Marcus Spears Jr. wasted no time making his presence felt in his first official game as a Texas Longhorn. The 17-year-old freshman and former Dynamic Prep standout delivered an impressive performance Monday night, helping No. 7 Texas cruise to a 109-59 season-opening victory over Chicago State at the Moody Center.
Coming off the bench, the 6-foot-9 forward finished with 11 points, five rebounds, one assist and four blocks in just 20 minutes of action. His combination of size, athleticism and defensive ability immediately caught the attention of Longhorn fans.
Spears Jr. showed that he can make an impact on both ends of the floor. While his scoring helped Texas maintain its offensive rhythm, his four blocks highlighted the defensive potential he brings to the program.
The debut was also a special family moment. His father, former NFL defensive lineman and ESPN analyst Marcus Spears, watched proudly from ESPN's Monday Night Countdown broadcast. The emotional moment came when ESPN surprised him with live footage of his son entering the Moody Center before the game.
Despite the impressive performance, Spears Jr. knows there is still room to grow.
"This is just step one," Spears Jr. said following the game, recognizing that he still has plenty of work ahead.
With an impressive debut already behind him, Spears Jr. has given Longhorn fans plenty of reasons to be excited. If Monday night was any indication, the young forward could become an important piece of Texas basketball's future.
Final Stats: 11 points | 5 rebounds | 1 assist | 4 blocks | 20 minutes.