Baylor Basketball: 3 biggest keys for Bears to beat #1 Gonzaga

1. Baylor’s backcourt must continue to dominate

Through its first three games this season, the Baylor backcourt has accounted for almost 80% of the scoring. This is a product of excellent communication and the ability of the guards to get open with ease in order to create open looks. Against high basketball IQ Gonzaga squad under Mark Few, this must continue, if Baylor is going to beat them.

One thing that will help Baylor accomplish this is the variety of scoring options. If teams shut one guard down, then there are five more to worry about. Illinois found this out the hard way the other night. Well, they were not shutting much of anybody down for good, but they realized how deep this Baylor basketball team is.

Baylor’s sophomore guard Adam Flagler, a transfer from Presbyterian College, came off of the bench and scored 18 points on 6/11 shooting. He went 5/6 on 2 point attempts and went 4/4 from the free throw line. Flagler’s performance could more than likely be a key to Baylor’s success against Gonzaga.

While prolific scoring makes Baylor’s backcourt a force that is menacing, they have just as much an ability to control games defensively. Off-ball defense has been a huge story so far for the Bears. Opposing guards do not easily find openings or uncontested passing opportunities. This will be big against a Gonzaga team that relies on quick ball movement and sharp moves to the basket.