No. 13 Texas Tech vs. Baylor: High-Stakes Showdown After Stunning Upsets
LUBBOCK, Texas – No. 13 Texas Tech (17-4, 8-2 Big 12) and Baylor (14-7, 6-4 Big 12) are set to clash Tuesday night in a pivotal Big 12 battle, both riding high after dramatic upset victories. The Red Raiders outlasted No. 6 Houston in an 82-81 overtime thriller, while the Bears staged a historic 21-point comeback against No. 11 Kansas.
With momentum on both sides, this game promises to be a showdown of resilience, depth, and strategy.
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Texas Tech’s Resilience on Display
Texas Tech’s victory over Houston was as much about grit as skill. Despite losing leading scorer JT Toppin and head coach Grant McCasland within the first four minutes due to ejections, the Red Raiders found a way to win.
“We knew it would take everything we had,” McCasland said. “Handling adversity like this is the definition of a great team.”
Key Performers for Texas Tech
- Chance McMillian led the charge with 23 points, stepping up in a critical moment.
- Five Red Raiders scored in double figures, showcasing the team’s depth.
- Home Court Advantage: Texas Tech boasts an 11-2 home record, making them a tough opponent in Lubbock.
Baylor’s Historic Comeback Fuels Confidence
Baylor’s 91-85 victory over Kansas will go down as one of the greatest comebacks in Big 12 history. Trailing by 21 points, the Bears dominated the second half 60-30, proving their resilience.
Freshman Robert Wright III emerged as a star, scoring a career-high 24 points, while Norchad Omier posted an impressive 18-point, 16-rebound double-double.
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Injury Concerns for Baylor
Despite the win, the Bears are dealing with significant injuries:
- VJ Edgecombe (ankle) – No timetable for return.
- Langston Love (ankle soreness) – Missed 9 straight games, day-to-day.
- Jeremy Roach (concussion protocol) – Missed 4 straight games, day-to-day.
Coach Scott Drew remains optimistic. “I’ve been here 22 years, and I don’t know if I’ve ever been more proud of a group,” he said.
Key Matchups & Game Analysis
1. Backcourt Battle: Robert Wright III vs. Texas Tech’s Defense
Wright has shown the ability to take over games, but Texas Tech’s perimeter defense will look to contain him.
2. Texas Tech’s Depth vs. Baylor’s Short Rotation
With injuries piling up for Baylor, Texas Tech’s balanced attack could wear down the Bears.
3. Momentum vs. Home Court Advantage
Baylor is riding a massive confidence boost, but Texas Tech’s dominance at home (11-2) could be the deciding factor.
Historical Edge & What’s at Stake
- Last Season: The teams split their series, with each winning at home.
- Big 12 Standings: Texas Tech is pushing for a top conference spot, while Baylor looks to stay in the race.
- March Madness Implications: A win strengthens either team’s NCAA Tournament resume.
Kansas coach Bill Self warned that Baylor could be “dangerous” come March. Tuesday night’s game will test that theory.
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Prediction & Final Thoughts
Expect a high-energy, physical contest where Texas Tech’s depth and home-court advantage could tilt the scales. However, Baylor’s ability to rally under pressure makes them a formidable opponent, even with injuries.
Regardless of the outcome, one thing is clear: both teams have proven they belong among the Big 12’s best.