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

3. The Bears must win the transition game

Speed and court vision are what allows NCAA basketball teams to play well in transition. Both Baylor and Gonzaga do that extremely well. Through the first few games, offensive plays in transition have led to game-deciding points for both of these teams.

Since transition play often plays a role in determining who will leave a building with a win, this game may be no different in regards to that. In fact, I truly think it may come down to the team that can score with ease from these transition opportunities. With that said, if this Baylor Basketball team is to be the victor, the transition game must be won.

Offensively, Playing well in transition will not be much of an issue for the Bears. As soon as the ball is won, Scott Drew’s guys always have their eyes down the floor and are ready to make a quick play. Also, this Baylor team has done a great job at earning these transition chances through exceptional defense.

This defense, specifically, the off-ball defense, creates lots of opportunities for steals. As the Baylor guards are quick to prevent passes, deflections often result in turnovers. Also, the ability to shut down options often causes a ball handler to drop his guard. This allows Baylor’s more talented guards to pick up steals. From here, the speed and court vision leads to the transition points.

Now, Baylor’s transition offense is great, but so is that of Gonzaga. The Bears will have to step up their transition defense to keep them from slicing through to the hoop. If they can do what they have been and earn points in transition, then the only task is to prevent Gonzaga from finding easy looks in transition. Doing these things will allow this Baylor Basketball team to win this game.