Booker Exits Texas Win With Back Injury

Texas guard Madison Booker left its game against South Dakota State late in the first half after an awkward fall and did not return.

Updated on Nov. 12, 2026 in Basketball

Expressive sports illustration of a basketball player in a burnt-orange and white uniform mid-stride on a hardwood court under arena lights, suggesting an in-game injury moment. — Texas guard Madison Booker left the team's game against South Dakota State in the first half after an awkward fall and did not return. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Madison Booker left the Texas women's basketball game against South Dakota State late in the first half after an awkward fall, clutching her back as she exited the court. Texas led 74-49 after three quarters without her on the floor.

Why it matters

Booker has been a central scorer early this season, averaging 27.0 points through two games, so her availability affects Texas's rotation. The team's roster includes five freshmen alongside three returners from last year's Final Four squad.

Booker finished with 9 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists in 19 minutes before exiting, compared with season averages of 27.0 points, 5.5 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 3.5 steals through two games. Texas outscored South Dakota State 29-18 in the third quarter without her, though the severity of her injury has not been disclosed.

The players

Madison Booker

A Texas Longhorns women's basketball guard who was averaging 27.0 points per game through two games this season.

Jayda Clark

A Texas Longhorns women's basketball player who scored 21 points on 9-of-12 shooting through three quarters against South Dakota State.

The details

Booker was injured late in the first half after an awkward fall and was seen clutching her back as she left the court. Jayda Clark scored 21 points on 9-of-12 shooting through three quarters while Texas built its lead.

Booker was injured late in the first half of the game on November 11, 2026.

Season Trajectory

Texas's roster blends five freshmen with three returners from last year's Final Four squad, so veteran scorers like Booker carry outsized weight early in the season. Any extended absence would test how far the younger players can absorb her production in the team's opening games.

Booker's status will determine how Texas distributes minutes and shot attempts in its next games. Fantasy and bracket watchers should track her availability before the team's next contest.

The takeaway

A single injury can reshape a young roster's rotation quickly, and early-season depth is often tested in games like this one. Following the team's official injury updates will clarify how long Booker is expected to be out.