In a heart-pounding clash for the Big 12 Championship title, Baylor women’s basketball team faced off against TCU and lost a hard-fought battle with a final score of 64-59 on Sunday. The game took place at the T-Mobile Center, where emotions ran high, and fans held their breath right down to the last second.
The Comeback Battle
Baylor showed great resilience by mounting a strong comeback during the match. With just 3:43 left on the clock, they fought tirelessly to tie the game at 57-57. But alas, despite their best efforts, the final minutes proved challenging. Nettie Vonleh, who had a remarkable game scoring 20 points, attempted a three-pointer in the final seconds that could have tied the game once more, but it missed the mark, intensifying the heartache of the loss.
A Game of Two Halves
It was a tale of two halves for Baylor. In the first half, TCU held the Bears to a mere 26% shooting, making it incredibly difficult for them to find a rhythm. The second half, however, brought a spark to Baylor as they began to fight back, showcasing their strong determination and teamwork. Notably, Sarah Andrews made a significant impact with 13 of her points coming in the second half, contributing to the Bears’ late-game surge.
Standout Performances
Apart from Vonleh’s stand-out performance, TCU had strong support as well; Hailey Van Lith matched her with 20 points of her own, leading together with Vonleh in a display of exceptional skills. TCU’s Sedona Prince also played a key role, securing a double-double with 12 points and an impressive 14 rebounds. The teamwork displayed by both teams highlighted why this championship match was so thrilling to watch.
What’s Next for Baylor?
With this loss, Baylor’s journey in the Big 12 Tournament ends, but the team’s sights are now set on the NCAA Tournament. After two years away from hosting, Baylor is hoping for a favorable outcome on Selection Sunday to ensure they can welcome teams to their home court once again. With a current record of 27-7 and a strong net ranking, Baylor is buzzing with anticipation as they await the reveal of their tournament path.
Reflections from Coach and Players
Baylor’s Coach Kim Mulkey voiced her encouragement regarding the team’s effort, stating that the missed shot by Vonleh was a calculated risk in an unexpected situation but recognized how important teamwork is in such high-stakes games. “We were one stop away every time,” she remarked, highlighting the thin line between winning and losing in sports.
A Look Back at the Season
This season has proven to be a rollercoaster for the Baylor women, transitioning well under the leadership of their coach Nicki Collen. Having advanced to the Sweet Sixteen last year and achieving notable victories against teams like Kansas State and Oklahoma State, it’s clear Baylor has built a strong foundation for success moving forward. The enthusiasm for the upcoming NCAA Tournament is palpable, and fans can already feel the excitement in the air.
Stay Tuned!
The journey isn’t over for Baylor women’s basketball. With the NCAA Tournament just around the corner, fans will be eagerly watching to see where they land and who they will face next. Keep your eyes peeled as we follow the Bears on this exciting path ahead!
