Pitt faces its second straight game against a quality opponent, taking on No. 22 Texas on Friday in the Madison Square Garden finale.

Pitt faces a talented Texas frontcourt in forwards Jordan Hamilton, Tristan Thompson, and Gary Johnson. The trio averages more than 50 points per game. The Panthers' frontcourt has done a good job defensively so far this season, but hasn't faced a trio as talented as Texas'.

The team beat up on Maryland on the boards in Thursday's game, but that might not be the case Friday. And if Pitt can't repeat its dominance on the glass, the team will need to shoot better in the first half. Otherwise it could be a long night.

Pitt should have the advantage in the backcourt. Texas' starting guards, senior Dogus Balbay and freshman Cory Joseph only combine for about 13 ppg and 5 apg. Brad Wanamaker and Ashton Gibbs should score more than the 23 points they contributed against Maryland. Both Wanamaker and Gibbs are also slightly taller and rebound a bit better as well.

And in case you forgot, these two teams actually have some recent history. The two played each other last season in the CBE Classic Championship. Texas was ranked No. 3 and heavily favored over unranked Pitt. The Panthers held their own in the first half and even had a two-point lead before Texas pulled away late.