As the Longhorns’ regular season comes to an end, head coach Vic Schaefer and the Texas women’s basketball program hope to make it a memorable one. After raising more than $135,000 last year, Schaefer has again pledged $10,000 to the Neighborhood Longhorns Program if 10,000 fans attend the regular season finale against Baylor. The program helps financially challenged kids attend college.

The Neighborhood Longhorns Program uses the help of UT students, student athletes, volunteers and staff to set kids on a path toward higher education. Schaefer sees the chance to help and raise money to benefit the lives of children and communities surrounding the program, and he takes full responsibility to seize that opportunity.

“When we’ve had opportunities to give back and be a part of a community, we’ve really embraced that and feel like that’s our duty and obligation,” Schaefer said. “It’s our way of giving back to this community and making an impact with our youth.”

Schaefer’s dedication to serving the community runs deep throughout the Longhorn program. With others matching his original $10,000 pledge, the total donations amount to $140,000. An undisclosed person even bought 1,000 tickets for children to attend the game.

“Man, how special is that,” Schaefer said. “This is what a women’s basketball program can do for your community, and this has nothing to do with wins and losses or x’s and o’s.” 

However, the event is also meant to garner further fan support. Schaefer says it’s his dream for the rise in attendance to become a norm and he wants to share the arena with 10,000 fans at every game. 

“It feels great to see so many people come out to the game,” sophomore guard Rori Harmon said. “It just gives us extra energy, and … it’s very appreciated.”

Junior forward Taylor Jones and graduate student guard Shaylee Gonzales added that the atmosphere of a fan-filled Moody Center is unbeatable and creates an exciting environment for the team to play in.

Schaefer hopes to see a packed Moody Center to close out the season while supporting an invaluable cause. He looks forward to getting an excellent game atmosphere for his players, 

supporting his community and growing the support for his women’s basketball team on a special night.

“This is our opportunity to be a blessing to others, and I’m so proud of what our kids and our program have been able to do for the Neighborhood Longhorns Program,” Schaefer said. “I’m honored to have this opportunity to be a part of it. I’m excited about it, and it’s really special.”