Big 12 Basketball: Midseason recap, awards, and observations

What questions still remain?

1. What’s the lowest number of conference wins for a team to get into the NCAA tournament?

One thing that can’t be forgotten was how successful every team in this league was in the non-conference. More specifically, they avoided bad losses. This is important because it will limit the total losses on the resume of Big 12 bubble teams. With that being said, you also don’t want to be 7-11 in league play either. Or do you? It’s not like any of these games are bad losses, so what’s the magic number of league wins to guarantee a spot?

2. Will TCU have another meltdown?

The Horned Frogs lost seven Big 12 games in a row last season to propel them to the NIT. They were off to a 1-4 start this season, playing a difficult front-loaded schedule. It’s a bit easier in the back half, but fans of a program who hasn’t been in the NCAA tournament in over 20 years have to be nervous right now. TCU is still in good shape, but avoiding another 6-12 conference season would be ideal.

3. Will Nick Weiler-Babb get his first triple-double?

He was one rebound shy of getting one against Oklahoma State, and a couple of assists shy versus Kansas. There were also a few other games where he was a couple of different stats away from that elusive triple-double. Will he finally get it in the second half of Big 12 play?

4. Does Texas Tech have enough offense to remain in the top four?

The Red Raiders have been the biggest overall surprise but after losing senior forward Zach Smith, the Red Raiders have failed to surpass 70 points in the past several games. Right now, it’s been Keenan Evans or bust, can some other players consistently chip in to help shoulder the load?

5. Which absence will have the biggest impact on their team?

Options: Andrew Jones (Texas), Kamau Stokes (Kansas State), Jaylen Fisher (TCU), Zach Smith (Texas Tech)

All four of these guys were starters for their respective teams and provided something of value. Each team has seemed to find their replacement, but there are still issues. With all four in the hunt for an at-large bid, does any of these injuries/illness derail one of these team’s seasons?

Next: Latest Big 12 power rankings

Bonus question: Will Kansas win yet another regular season title?

This is really what it’s all about, whether the Jayhawks can make it 14 in a row. Oklahoma’s win keeps hope alive for them and everyone else, but it’s Kansas title to lose.