If you’re scrambling to find what channel are the texas longhorns playing on right now, you aren't alone. It’s Saturday, January 17, 2026, and the atmosphere in Austin is basically electric. We aren't just talking about any mid-January matchup; the Texas A&M Aggies are in town for a massive hardwood edition of the Lone Star Showdown at the Moody Center.
Honestly, since Texas moved to the SEC, these rivalry games hit different. You don't want to be the person clicking through five different streaming apps while the opening tip is happening.
Finding the Longhorns Today
The game today, Saturday, January 17, is being televised nationally on ESPN.
The tip-off is set for 5:00 PM CT. If you’re tuned in, you’ll hear Roy Philpott handling the play-by-play while Jon Crispin breaks down the X's and O's as the analyst. It’s a huge spotlight for a team that has had some serious ups and downs this season. Just a few days ago, the Horns dropped a tough one to Vanderbilt (who was ranked No. 10 at the time) right here in Austin.
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Watching the Longhorns in 2026 usually means staying glued to the ESPN family of networks. Because of the SEC’s massive media rights deal, almost every game is either on ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, or the SEC Network.
Upcoming Basketball Schedule and Channels
If you’re planning out your next few weeks of shouting at the TV, here is where you’ll find the Burnt Orange:
- Wednesday, Jan 21: Texas at Kentucky. This one is huge. It’s at Rupp Arena and kicks off at 7:00 PM CT. Look for it on ESPN or ESPN2.
- Saturday, Jan 24: Georgia Bulldogs at Texas. Back home at the Moody Center. Tip is at 12:00 PM CT.
- Wednesday, Jan 28: Texas at Auburn. Neville Arena is a nightmare for visitors. Catch this one at 6:00 PM CT.
- Saturday, Jan 31: Texas at Oklahoma. The Red River Rivalry moves to Norman for this one. It starts at 1:00 PM CT.
How to Stream the Longhorns Without Cable
Look, cable is expensive. I get it. If you’ve cut the cord, you have a few solid ways to make sure you’re seeing every bucket and defensive stop.
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Fubo is usually the go-to for sports fans because it carries the SEC Network and all the ESPN channels. They often have free trials if you're just trying to catch this specific game against A&M. YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV are the other big hitters that won't let you down.
Don't forget ESPN+. While the big games are usually on the linear "big" channels, some of the smaller matchups or Olympic sports often end up there. If you’re a die-hard fan of the whole Texas program, it’s basically a requirement at this point.
What Happened to Longhorn Network?
It’s gone. Sorta.
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When Texas officially joined the SEC in 2024, the Longhorn Network (LHN) as we knew it—the 24/7 channel dedicated to all things UT—was folded into the SEC Network. A lot of fans still ask about this because they’re used to finding baseball or volleyball games on that specific channel. Now, those games are usually on SEC Network+, which you access through the ESPN app using your TV provider login.
A Quick Look Back at Football
Football season just wrapped up, and what a ride it was. The Longhorns finished strong, beating Michigan 41–27 in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on New Year’s Eve. That game was on ABC, which has become the primary home for the biggest Texas football matchups.
If you're already looking ahead to the 2026 football season, expect more of the same. The SEC on ABC is the new "Game of the Week" standard.
Why the Channel Matters
It sounds simple, but the channel actually tells you a lot about how the game is viewed nationally. When Texas is on the "big" ESPN or ABC, it means the eyes of the country are on Austin. When they’re on SEC Network, it’s more of a regional "grind it out" conference vibe. Today’s game against A&M being on the main ESPN channel shows just how much the network values the revival of this rivalry.
Actionable Tips for Longhorn Fans
- Download the ESPN App: Since most games are on their platforms, having the app authenticated with your provider is the fastest way to switch between the main channel and SEC Network+.
- Check the Local Radio: If you’re stuck in traffic on I-35 (which, let’s be real, you probably are), tune into the Longhorn Radio Network. Craig Way is a legend for a reason. 104.9 FM "The Horn" is the flagship in Austin.
- Follow Official Accounts: The @TexasMBB and @TexasLonghorns accounts on X (formerly Twitter) post the exact channel and streaming link about 30 minutes before every tip-off.
The best way to stay prepared is to keep the ESPN app on your home screen. With the SEC schedule being as volatile as it is, game times and specific "ESPN2 vs. SEC Network" decisions are sometimes made only a week in advance. Hook 'em!