WATCH: Patrick Mahomes loses a March Madness bet and dons a costume that sparks fan debate

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere of March Madness, an unexpected twist featuring NFL sensation Patrick Mahomes has emerged. In a delightful turn of events, Mahomes found himself sporting the attire of the Texas Longhorns’ beloved mascot as part of a friendly wager tied to the Thursday night basketball clash between the Longhorns and the Colorado State Rams in Charlotte.

Taking to his Instagram story, the 28-year-old shared a playful snapshot of himself donning the iconic Hook ‘Em mask, accompanied by a caption that humorously acknowledged the terms of the bet. Mahomes tagged Buffalo Bills quarterback Shane Buechele and his wife Paige Buechele in the post, signaling their involvement in the spirited exchange.

The backstory behind Mahomes’ unexpected attire hails from his alma mater’s longstanding rivalry with the University of Texas at Austin, home to the Texas Longhorns. As emotions run high during March Madness, Mahomes found himself on the losing side of a friendly wager, leading to his endearing transformation into the famed Longhorns mascot, much to the amusement of fans and onlookers.

The iconic Hook ‘Em mascot, a symbol of pride for the University of Texas, has been a fixture at athletic events since its inception in the mid-1970s. Clad in the distinctive Longhorns’ garb, Hook ‘Em embodies the essence of school spirit and solidarity, attending numerous university functions each season. Additionally, the renowned “Hook ’em Horns” hand gesture, originating in 1955, further amplifies the university’s rich athletic heritage and fan culture.

Why was Mahomes involved?

Mahomes’ unexpected foray into Longhorns’ regalia injects a delightful element of whimsy into the March Madness spectacle, highlighting the profound connections and rivalries that permeate both collegiate and professional sports arenas.

The showdown between the Longhorns and the Rams adds another captivating chapter to the annals of college basketball rivalries. Despite a sluggish start in the opening half, the No. 7-seeded Longhorns managed to emerge victorious in the opening round of March Madness, securing a hard-fought win over the Rams.

Dylan Disu and Tyrese Hunter led the charge for the Longhorns, while Joel Scott spearheaded the Rams’ efforts in a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful bid. With a final score of 56-44 in favor of the Longhorns, the game showcased Texas’ resilience and tenacity, securing their advancement in the tournament.

Notably, Mahomes’ connection to both Texas Tech University and the Texas Longhorns adds an intriguing dimension to the matchup, underscoring the diverse talents cultivated within collegiate athletics. As Mahomes’ mascot cameo brought a unique flair to the proceedings, it served as a reminder of the vibrant tapestry of sportsmanship and camaraderie that defines the March Madness experience.