In a thrilling showdown at the T-Mobile Center, the Baylor Bears faced off against the TCU Horned Frogs in the Big 12 Championship final. The excitement was palpable as fans filled the arena, hoping to witness Baylor claim the title. However, despite a valiant effort, Baylor lost by a narrow margin of 64-59 to TCU, marking yet another chapter in their challenging rivalry.
Game Highlights
The game started as a tough contest for Baylor, with the team shooting only 26% in the first half, trailing behind TCU 30-19 at halftime. As the third quarter progressed, fans began to feel the heat, knowing their team needed to turn things around. The Bears rallied, and a fierce comeback saw them tie the game at 57-57 with just under four minutes left. It was a nail-biting moment, with the championship hanging in the balance.
Baylor’s Last-Hour Push
Despite the intense atmosphere and tremendous support from the crowd, Baylor couldn’t hold onto the momentum they had built. In a critical moment, Nettie Vonleh, who was instrumental in the comeback, missed a potential game-tying three-pointer in the final seconds of the game. She and Hailey Van Lith both led the Bears with 20 points each, showcasing their talent and determination in this high-pressure match.
TCU Celebrates a Major Win
On the opposite side, TCU celebrated its first conference tournament title in two decades. Sedona Prince was a standout performer for TCU, contributing a double-double with 12 points and 14 rebounds. This victory adds a significant milestone to TCU’s sports history, while Baylor’s quest for a championship continues.
Looking Ahead: NCAA Tournament
Even with the disappointment of the championship loss, Baylor’s basketball team is already setting its sights on the next challenge: the NCAA Tournament. With a season record of 27-7 and a significant number of talented players, the Bears are hoping to host games in Waco. Coach Kim Mulkey expressed optimism about her team’s potential moving forward, focusing on their leadership and strategic play throughout the season.
| Player | Points | Rebounds |
|---|---|---|
| Nettie Vonleh | 20 | N/A |
| Hailey Van Lith | 20 | N/A |
| Sedona Prince | 12 | 14 |
| Sarah Andrews | 13 | N/A |
What’s Next for the Bears?
As the NCAA Tournament approaches, all eyes will be on Baylor women’s basketball. The Bear’s next match is crucial, and they’re eager to rise up and make their mark after facing some tough battles. Players like Aaronette Vonleh and Darianna Littlepage-Buggs are expected to lead the charge as they aim for victory. With the right mindset and determination, Baylor could make a deep run in the tournament.
Baylor fans, though disappointed today, continue to show unwavering support for their team. Stay tuned for the NCAA Tournament, as Baylor is hoping to bounce back and showcase their grit on a national stage!
