After their win over Kansas on March 9, the NCAA Tournament became a realistic possibility for Baylor. But with ESPN’s Joe Lunardi still projecting the Bears to miss The Big Dance, Oklahoma State becomes a must-win for Baylor. A deep run in the Big 12 tournament could sway the Selection Committee and have Baylor in the Tournament for third time in four years.
Oklahoma State vs. Baylor preview: Bears look to build resume against Cowboys in Big 12 tournament
With their bubble status uncertain, Baylor takes on Oklahoma State in the quarterfinal round.
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Oklahoma State (13-5) enters the tournament as the No. 3 seed, having won 11 of their last 13 games. The Cowboys have traded blows with Baylor this season, dropping a Jan. 26 road game 64-54 before beating Baylor at home in overtime 69-67.
Baylor senior Pierre Jackson will be the top scorer on the floor, entering the game leading the Big 12 with 19.4 points. He also distributes the ball, dishing out 6.6 assists per game as well. The Bears also sport a solid center, freshman Isaiah Austin, who tallies 13.6 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game.
Oklahoma State runs its offense through the backcourt, with junior Markel Brown and freshman phenom Marcus Smart each averaging over 15 points. Brown averages 38.1% from 3-point range and adds a deep threat to the Cowboys attack.
Game time, TV: 9:30 p.m. ET/WatchESPN
Location: Sprint Center, Kansas City, MO
More: For more on Oklahoma State, head over to Cowboys Ride For Free. And for more on Baylor, check out Our Daily Bears.
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