No. 7 Texas vs. Chicago State preview: Three problems to fix before the games get harder

Texas Longhorns coach Sean Miller has a list of to-do items heading into Monday night’s game against Chicago State at Moody Center. The top priority is taking better care of the ball, finishing defensive possessions, and getting more production from the starting center. This exhibition game provides an opportunity to address these issues before the upcoming challenges become more difficult.

With 11 newcomers and one returning starter, Texas enters the season opener with an 87-74 exhibition loss to St. John’s exposing areas that need improvement. One of the biggest concerns is giving possessions away, as the Red Storm capitalized on Texas' 10 turnovers before halftime and 16 turnovers overall, leading to a 20-7 advantage off turnovers.

While the first half-court problems are more pressing than pressing against the press, getting the ball across midcourt also requires making the next read. The backcourt will be thinner than anticipated, with junior Isaiah Johnson and senior Austin Goosby handling the majority of the ballhandling duties. Chicago State presents a chance for Texas to build these habits.

The starting center Matas Vokietaitis should set the standard for rebounding, rebounding at a higher level, and anchoring the new group. Additionally, Texas must improve their defensive glass control, as St. John’s took the rebounding battle 33-28. The foul line shooting is another area to tighten up, with Texas shooting 64.7 percent in the exhibition while missing 12 points.

Despite being projected as seventh in the preseason, Texas has won 24 straight home openers and both previous meetings with Chicago State.