In a thrilling showdown, No. 8 TCU claimed their first-ever Big 12 Championship in women’s basketball, defeating Baylor 75-68. The victory was propelled by the standout performance of Tournament MVP Hailey Van Lith, who dominated on both ends of the court, guiding her team to a historic win.
Van Lith, a transfer from Louisville, has made an immediate impact in her first season with TCU. She played with poise and determination, scoring a game-high 27 points, while also contributing 5 assists and 6 rebounds. Her clutch shooting and leadership were evident in the final minutes, as TCU held off a late rally by Baylor to secure the victory.
The Horned Frogs’ win marks a significant achievement in their program’s history, as it is their first Big 12 Championship since joining the conference. TCU had come close in previous years but had never been able to break through. This year, however, they have proven themselves to be a legitimate contender, thanks in large part to Van Lith’s exceptional play and the team’s balanced attack.
Baylor, a perennial powerhouse in the Big 12, put up a strong fight but could not overcome TCU’s offensive efficiency. While the Lady Bears were led by guard Sarah Andrews, who had 20 points and 8 assists, they struggled to find consistency throughout the game. Despite a solid second-half surge, Baylor was unable to contain Van Lith and the dynamic TCU offense.
The win also speaks volumes about the growth and development of TCU’s program under head coach Raegan Pebley. Since her arrival in 2013, Pebley has helped elevate the program, and this championship victory is a testament to her leadership and the work of her coaching staff. The Horned Frogs were a cohesive unit, with key contributions from players like guards Lauren Heard and LaDazhia Williams, who each chipped in double-digit points.
With the win, TCU secures an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament, where they will be a dangerous team to watch. Van Lith’s outstanding tournament performance and the Horned Frogs’ impressive play all season long make them a formidable opponent for anyone in the national bracket. TCU’s victory is a historic one, and it signals the arrival of the Horned Frogs as a new powerhouse in women’s college basketball.
