As we head into the final stretch of the Big 12 regular season, the race for the title is as intense as ever. Arizona and Houston are neck and neck at the top with 11-2 records, while Iowa State and Kansas are hot on their heels, each boasting a 10-3 record. It's a thrilling showdown that promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Texas Tech, sitting at 9-4, still has a mathematical shot at the top spot, but without their star, JT Toppin, who’s sidelined with an ACL injury, they'll need some serious help from the teams above them. Their upcoming road games against Iowa State and BYU are critical if they want to stay in the hunt.
For teams like BYU, UCF, and West Virginia, all standing at 7-6, the path to the top is a steep climb. It would require a near miracle for any of them to break into the top tier at this stage.
The upcoming matchups among the top four teams will likely decide the champion. Here’s a look at the key games that will shape the Big 12 race:
Crucial Big 12 Showdowns:
- Arizona at Houston on Saturday, February 21st
- Arizona vs Kansas on Saturday, February 28th
- Arizona vs Iowa State on Monday, March 2nd
- Houston vs Arizona on Saturday, February 21st
- Houston at Kansas on Monday, February 23rd
- Kansas vs Houston on Monday, February 23rd
- Kansas at Arizona on Saturday, February 28th
- Iowa State at Arizona on Monday, March 2nd
Breaking Down the Big 12 Race:
Arizona faces a daunting schedule, taking on each of the top contenders in the coming weeks. Their clash with Houston could be the decisive factor, as it’s the only regular-season meeting between the two. A win for either team would provide a crucial tiebreaker advantage.
Houston, if victorious against Arizona, faces a quick turnaround to a Big Monday game at Kansas. History is on Kansas' side, with Bill Self's perfect 40-0 record in Big Monday games at Allen Fieldhouse. Even if Houston splits these games, they could still control their destiny with a favorable schedule against Colorado, Baylor, and Oklahoma State.
Kansas, with a win over Houston, would gain a vital tiebreaker. Their remaining schedule includes winnable games against Cincinnati, Arizona State, and Kansas State. The showdown at Arizona on February 28th looms large as a potential decider for the conference crown.
Iowa State's path is challenging, with a critical matchup in Tucson against Arizona. A loss there could dash their hopes for the top spot. They also face a tough road test at BYU on February 21st.
As the season winds down, the Big 12 race is poised to deliver drama and excitement. With so many scenarios in play, fans are in for a thrilling conclusion.
Who will emerge as the top seed heading into the Big 12 tournament? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure-this race is far from over.