Aaliyah Moore, a standout forward for the Texas Longhorns women’s basketball team, has been a pivotal figure in the program’s recent successes. Her journey from a promising high school athlete to a collegiate star has been marked by resilience and determination. However, her career has also been challenged by significant injuries, notably a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her left knee, which has sidelined her for extended periods.
High School Achievements
Moore’s basketball prowess was evident early in her high school career. She was named a McDonald’s All-American in 2021 and earned the Oklahoma Gatorade Player of the Year award twice. Her senior year statistics were impressive: averaging 25.2 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 2.2 blocked shots per game, leading her team to a 16-9 record. Over her high school tenure, she amassed 1,803 points and 882 rebounds, setting school records. Additionally, she played a crucial role in Team USA’s gold medal victory at the FIBA Americas U16 Championship in Chile.
College Career and Injuries
Upon joining the University of Texas, Moore quickly became a key player for the Longhorns. In her freshman year (2021-22), she appeared in 28 games, starting nine, and averaged 6.0 points and 3.1 rebounds per game. She contributed significantly to the team’s Big 12 Championship title and their return to the NCAA Elite Eight. Notably, she recorded a season-high 15 rebounds against UTRGV and a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds in the NCAA Tournament First Round win over Fairfield.
The following season (2022-23), Moore’s trajectory was interrupted by a torn ACL in her left knee, sustained during a game against Alabama State on December 11, 2022. This injury sidelined her for the remainder of the season. At the time of the injury, she was averaging 11.2 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. Despite the setback, Moore expressed a positive outlook, stating, “I’m going to attack the rehab process and be the best teammate I can from the sidelines.”
Moore’s resilience was evident during her rehabilitation. She focused on setting small goals, such as learning to walk correctly again and lifting her leg, demonstrating her commitment to recovery. She also engaged in off-court activities, including attending the Black Student-Athlete Summit in Los Angeles, where she explored career and networking opportunities beyond basketball.
Return to the Court and Subsequent Injury
Moore made a commendable return to the court in the 2023-24 season. She played in 33 games, starting 19, and earned All-Big 12 Second Team honors. Her performance included matching her career-high of 21 points in an NCAA Tournament second-round victory over Alabama and recording a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds in a Sweet 16 win over Gonzaga. She also averaged 15.7 points and 8.3 rebounds over three games, contributing to Texas’s Big 12 Tournament championship.
However, Moore’s journey took another challenging turn during the 2024-25 season. On December 11, 2024, she suffered a torn ACL in her left knee during a game against Alabama State, leading to her being sidelined for the remainder of the season. At the time of the injury, she was averaging 11.2 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. This injury was particularly disheartening, as it mirrored the setback she faced in the 2022-23 season.
Impact and Future Outlook
Moore’s injuries have undoubtedly been setbacks for both her and the Texas Longhorns. Her absence has left a noticeable gap in the team’s lineup, given her scoring ability and presence on the boards. However, her resilience and positive attitude during rehabilitation have been commendable. She has expressed a commitment to supporting her teammates from the sidelines and focusing on her recovery.
