Baylor Women’s Basketball Rolls Into Morgantown Riding Momentum and Lockdown Defense
Baylor hits the road this weekend, heading into a ranked Big 12 showdown against No. 22 West Virginia at Hope Coliseum in Morgantown.
Tipoff is set for noon CT on Sunday, with coverage on ESPN and the Baylor Sports Media Network. And make no mistake - this one has the makings of a heavyweight conference clash.
It’ll be the 31st meeting between these two programs, and recent history favors the Bears. Baylor has taken the last three matchups, including a nail-biter in 2024 that came down to the wire - literally. Jana Van Gytenbeek iced that one with a pair of clutch free throws in the final four seconds, sealing a one-point win that still lingers in Mountaineer memory.
Now, Baylor rolls into Morgantown tied for first place in the Big 12 alongside TCU and carrying the league’s longest active win streak at eight games. This isn’t just a hot team - it’s a battle-tested group that’s showing signs of something special.
Defense Leading the Charge
If there’s one thing Baylor’s hanging its hat on this season, it’s defense - especially beyond the arc. The Bears are ranked No. 1 in the country in 3-point defense, holding opponents to a stingy 22.7% from deep.
That number dips even lower in conference play, where they’re allowing just 21.2% from distance. In an era where spacing and perimeter shooting dominate offensive schemes, Baylor is putting on a clinic in how to take that weapon away.
Consistency in the Rankings
At 19-3 overall, Baylor sits at No. 14 in both the AP Top 25 and the USA TODAY Coaches Poll. This marks the Bears’ 19th consecutive appearance in the rankings - and their 360th over the past 20 seasons. Only UConn has been more consistent over that stretch, which speaks volumes about the sustained excellence in Waco.
They’re also sitting at No. 27 in the NCAA’s NET rankings through Jan. 29 and are 3-2 against Quadrant 1 opponents. Their most notable win? A season-opening victory over Duke in Paris - a signature moment that helped set the tone for what’s been a strong campaign.
Fontleroy Finds Her Rhythm
Bella Fontleroy is coming off her best performance of the season, notching her first double-double of the year - and the ninth of her career - with 17 points and 12 rebounds in a win over Houston. That game, delayed two days due to winter weather in Central Texas, saw Fontleroy rise to the occasion inside Foster Pavilion.
She wasn’t alone. Darianna Littlepage-Buggs poured in 25 points, Taliah Scott added 14, and Kyla Abraham chipped in 10. Baylor’s offense found its groove, shooting 52.5% from the field - their highest mark in Big 12 play and third-best overall this season.
The Bears held Houston to just 19 first-half points before both teams found their rhythm in the second half. Even as the Cougars shot over 50% after the break, Baylor maintained control and closed out an 82-66 win without ever letting things get too close for comfort.
Road Tested and Ready
Baylor’s been road warriors all season, and the numbers back it up. They’re a perfect 5-0 in true road games this year, with wins at UNLV, Oklahoma State, Iowa State, Utah, and BYU.
Stretching back to last season, they’ve now won 10 straight on the road and 16 of their last 18 away from home. That kind of success doesn’t happen by accident - it’s a testament to preparation, composure, and a team that knows how to travel.
Sunday’s matchup in Morgantown will be another test, but it’s one this Baylor squad looks built for. With elite defense, balanced scoring, and a proven ability to win on the road, the Bears are showing they’re more than just contenders - they’re a team that could make serious noise as the season heats up.