TCU Women’s Basketball Clinches Big 12 Championship
In a decisive display of skill and teamwork, the No. 11 women’s basketball team from Texas Christian University (TCU) clinched their second consecutive Big 12 regular-season championship by defeating No. 18 Baylor 65-53 on Sunday. This victory not only marked TCU’s impressive 42nd home win in a row but also reaffirmed their dominance over their in-state rivals, having previously beaten Baylor in last year’s conference finale as well.
Key Performers
Leading the charge for the Horned Frogs was Marta Suarez, who recorded a double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Olivia Miles contributed 19 points. The Frogs (27-4 overall and 15-3 in the Big 12) showcased their strength, establishing a significant lead that they would not relinquish. Suarez notably hit her fourth three-pointer of the game with 6:02 remaining in the third quarter, pushing the score to 40-21. This was enhanced by Taylor Bigby, who added 12 points, alongside Miles’s impactful plays just prior.
Baylor’s Struggles
Baylor struggled throughout the match, registering their lowest points of the season. Despite Taliah Scott’s strong performance in the fourth quarter where she scored 13 of her total 17 points, Baylor managed only a brief lead of 2-0 early on, following consecutive free throws by Scott.
Historical Context
Historically, TCU has seen a remarkable turnaround, having never reached the NCAA Sweet 16 or won a Big 12 title prior to last year, coming off a dismal 1-17 record in the conference during the 2022-23 season. No longer the underdogs, they have now defeated Baylor in five consecutive games—a stark contrast to their previous struggles against them, which included a 37-game losing streak since 1991.
Looking Ahead
The significance of this victory is further underscored as both teams prepare for the postseason and the upcoming Big 12 tournament in Kansas City. TCU and Baylor have secured double byes and will await their quarterfinal matchups on Friday. As the Horned Frogs gear up for potential NCAA tournament action, their ongoing home winning streak matches that of the No. 4 Texas team, setting the stage for an exciting postseason ahead.
