Baylor Basketball suffered a significant setback on March 2, 2024, losing to Kansas State with a final score of 90-74. The Bears entered the game hoping to recover from previous losses, but instead, they continued their troubling trend of turnovers, giving the ball away 19 times during the match. This defeat significantly dims their chances of qualifying for the NCAA Tournament.
The game began with a palpable energy from Kansas State, particularly from players PJ Haggerty and Nate Johnson. Their performance seemed fueled by a recent critique from former Head Coach Jerome Tang following a loss to Cincinnati. In stark contrast, Baylor appeared disorganized and disinterested, even with the return of Dan Skillings. The Bears quickly fell behind by seven points in the first half, a deficit that proved challenging to overcome.
Turnovers have plagued Baylor throughout the season, where they rank third in the Big 12 with an average of 11.9 turnovers per game. The trend continued against Kansas State, as the team turned the ball over on 24.7% of their possessions. Such carelessness not only hinders scoring opportunities but also reflects a lack of focus and determination.
With the NCAA Tournament looming, Baylor’s path to qualification has narrowed significantly. The team now faces a daunting challenge: they must defeat the No. 4 ranked Arizona and hope for a strong showing in the Big 12 Tournament. Current indicators suggest that the Bears are unlikely to rise to this occasion based on their recent performances.
Despite the struggles, fans are left hoping for a turnaround as the season progresses. The Bears have a reputation for resilience, and while this game was a setback, there remains a chance for redemption in upcoming matches.