Welcome to Tuesday Takes, where we dive into the latest buzz from the Big 12. This week was packed with action, and a few standout stories caught my eye.
JT Toppin: A Case for MVP
While the official All-Big 12 teams and awards are still pending, our team at Heartland College Sports has already weighed in. Matthew Postins crowned Texas Tech’s JT Toppin as the Big 12 Player of the Year, and I’m right there with him.
Sure, BYU’s AJ Dybansta has his supporters, and for good reason. But JT’s all-around dominance this season makes a compelling argument.
Toppin averaged a double-double, one of only two players in the conference to do so, and earned Big 12 Player of the Week honors four times before an untimely injury. While AJ might have the edge in scoring, JT’s comprehensive game makes him my pick for MVP, even with those missed last five games.
Big 12 Bubble Drama
Just a week ago, the Big 12 bubble teams were riding high with a 4-0 record on the final Saturday of February. But in the world of college basketball, fortunes can shift in the blink of an eye. With TCU securing their spot, the bubble pressure now falls on UCF, West Virginia, and Cincinnati.
West Virginia snagged a crucial win over UCF last Friday, but a prior loss to Kansas State leaves them at 9-9, needing a bit of luck. UCF finds itself in a similar bind after three consecutive losses, also sitting at 9-9.
Cincinnati’s defeat to TCU has them in the same 9-9 boat. None of these teams could clinch that elusive tenth win, making their upcoming performances in Kansas City all the more critical.
BYU’s Cinderella Potential
Every year, the Big 12 tournament seems to have a surprise contender, and this time, BYU might just be the team to watch. They kick off their tournament journey against Kansas State, a game they’re favored to win, before potentially facing West Virginia in the second round. Despite a recent loss to the Mountaineers, BYU, led by AJ Dybansta, has what it takes to pull off an upset.
Should they advance, a matchup with Houston looms. While Houston remains formidable, they’re not quite the powerhouse they were last year.
BYU could very well capitalize on this and make a deep run. I’m predicting BYU will notch at least three wins in Kansas City, boosting their stock before the big dance.
Enjoying Kansas City
Kansas City is a gem, especially during the Big 12 tournament. With its vibrant atmosphere, great food, and lively entertainment, it’s a must-visit for any basketball fan.
If you’re heading there, soak it all in and enjoy a cold one for me. And for those suggesting the tournament should move, I say experience Kansas City during this electrifying time before making that call.