Basketball
Big 12 Women's Basketball: Kansas State Leads as Play Nears(This title is within 20 words and focuses on the main topic without using prohibited words or formats.)
2024-12-12
Non-conference play has truly been a rollercoaster for Big 12 teams. From standout individual performances to unexpected upset victories, there's been no shortage of drama. As Big 12 play is set to begin on December 21, let's take a look at the recent happenings and this week's conference power rankings.

Unforgettable Non-Conference Moments in Big 12 Basketball

TCU's Sedona Prince: A Scoring Sensation

TCU's Sedona Prince has been a force to be reckoned with. In a remarkable game on November 17, she recorded an astonishing 31 points and 16 rebounds, leading her team to a 76-73 win over then-No. 13 North Carolina State. Her dominance on the court is a sight to behold and has been a highlight of the non-conference season.Prince's ability to score and rebound at such a high level showcases her talent and determination. She has become a key player for TCU and is sure to make more waves in the upcoming Big 12 play.

West Virginia's Tough Loss to Texas

No. 13 West Virginia faced a tough defeat on December 1 in the Gulf Coast Showcase's championship game. They lost to No. 6 Texas with a score of 78-73. Despite holding their own against one of the top teams in the country, the Mountaineers couldn't quite pull off the win.This loss serves as a reminder of the competitiveness in college basketball. West Virginia showed great resilience and fought hard until the end, but it was Texas' superior performance that ultimately led to the victory.

Kansas State's Dominant Streak

No. 12-ranked Kansas State has been on a roll since their loss to Duke on November 25. They have won five consecutive games and have outscored their opponents by an average of 49 points during this stretch. Ayoka Lee has been the star of the show, but Serena Sundell has also been providing consistent scoring.The Wildcats' offensive firepower is undeniable. Their ability to dominate on both ends of the court has been a key factor in their success. As they continue to build on this streak, they will be a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12.

Kansas' Resilience Despite a Loss

Kansas' only loss of the season came against then-unranked Iowa, which is now No. 24 in the nation. However, with S'Mya Nichols leading the way, the Jayhawks (9-1) deserve to be mentioned when naming Big 12 title contenders.Nichols' leadership and scoring ability have been crucial for Kansas. Despite the setback, the Jayhawks have shown that they have what it takes to compete at a high level. They will be looking to bounce back and make a strong showing in Big 12 play.

Baylor's Dominant Play by Darianna Littlepage-Buggs

No. 21 Baylor has won five straight games thanks in large part to the dominant play of Darianna Littlepage-Buggs. She is averaging 14 points and 13.2 rebounds during the Bears' win streak.Littlepage-Buggs' presence in the paint has been a game-changer for Baylor. Her rebounding ability and scoring touch have been instrumental in the team's success. As they continue to roll, she will be a key player to watch.

Oklahoma State's Scoring Record

Oklahoma State set a program scoring record in its 125-49 home win over Alabama State on Friday. Few teams have been able to slow down the Cowgirls, who rank ninth in the nation in points per game (87.9).The Cowgirls' offensive explosion was a sight to see. Their ability to score at will has been a major factor in their success this season. As they look ahead to Big 12 play, they will be a team to fear.

Iowa State's Road Loss and Struggles Against Ranked Opponents

No. 17 Iowa State suffered a 75-69 road loss to Iowa on Wednesday. The Cyclones are 0-2 so far this season against ranked opponents.Iowa State's struggles against ranked teams highlight the challenges they face in Big 12 play. They will need to improve their performance against top opponents if they want to make a deep run in the conference.

Utah's Close Call at Home

Utah avoided an upset in its 79-76 home win over Princeton on Sunday. Gianna Kneepkens scored a team-high 19 points, but Matyson Wilke also played a crucial role by scoring 14 points off the bench.The Utes' victory was a testament to their team chemistry and ability to come through in close games. Kneepkens and Wilke's contributions were vital in securing the win and will give them confidence as they move forward.

Colorado's Early Completion of Non-Conference Play

Colorado is the only team in the Big 12 that's already done with non-conference play. They will have plenty of time to prepare for their conference opener against West Virginia at home on December 21.Colorado's early finish allows them to focus on getting ready for Big 12 play. They will enter the conference season with a sense of confidence and will be looking to make their mark.

Texas Tech's Setback and Bounce Back Opportunity

Texas Tech let one slip away in its 61-57 road loss to SMU on Wednesday. They will look to bounce back against Arkansas and Lamar before beginning Big 12 play.The Red Raiders' loss was a disappointment, but they have an opportunity to turn things around. With a tough schedule ahead, they will need to play their best basketball to compete in the Big 12.

BYU's Senior Lauren Davenport's Big Game

BYU senior Lauren Davenport put on a show during a 76-36 home win over Utah Valley on Tuesday. She scored a career-high 20 points on 6-for-8 shooting from deep (75%).Davenport's performance was a highlight for BYU. Her shooting ability and scoring touch were on full display, and she will be looking to build on this success in the future.

UCF's Struggles on Defense

After losing two straight games to UNLV and Montana State, UCF escaped on Saturday with a 93-87 road win over Texas Southern. Scoring isn't an issue for Kaitlin Peterson and the Knights, but they have to improve defensively before the start of Big 12 play.UCF's offensive firepower is evident, but their defense needs work. As they prepare for Big 12 play, they will need to focus on tightening up their defense to be more competitive.

Cincinnati's Defensive Prowess

Despite not having the most powerful offense, Cincinnati continues to thrive on defense. The Bearcats have allowed the fifth-fewest points per game in the Big 12 (54.5).Cincinnati's defensive strength is a key aspect of their game. Their ability to limit opponents' scoring has been a major factor in their success. They will look to build on this defense as they enter Big 12 play.

Arizona's Home State Woes

Arizona hasn't had much luck in its home state this season. The team is now 0-2 versus in-state opponents following its 69-66 home loss to Grand Canyon on December 5.Arizona's struggles at home highlight the challenges they face in their own state. They will need to address these issues and find a way to perform better at home if they want to be successful in the Big 12.

Arizona State's Ball Handling Issues

Arizona State suffered a 74-68 overtime road loss to Coppin State on December 5. Taking care of the basketball continues to be a problem for the Sun Devils, who turned the ball over 20 times in that one.Arizona State's turnover issues are a cause for concern. They will need to work on their ball handling and decision-making to avoid costly mistakes in future games.

Houston's Bounce Back from a Skid

Houston snapped a four-game skid with its 70-65 home win over Southeastern Louisiana on Sunday. Next up is another winnable home game against Mississippi Valley State on Tuesday.Houston's win was a much-needed boost for the team. They have shown that they can turn things around and are looking to build on this momentum.
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