Big 12 Basketball: Best non-conference win from each team since 2012
By Andrew Tineo
Looking back at the conference that has been among the best in the country, Big 12 Basketball has provided plentiful classic games. Whether it be NCAA Tournament, Preseason Tournament, or just regular non-conference success, almost every team has a humongous upset.
The list begins in the 2012-2013 season, due to TCU and West Virginia officially becoming Big 12 teams.
Baylor
April 5, 2021. 86-70 win over No. 1 Gonzaga
Prior to the last game the Bears have played, there is a debate for other contests. Whether it be an upset win in Waco to begin the 2016-2017 season over No.2 Oregon or defeating Donovan Mitchell-led Louisville later that season. However, this is the biggest no-brainer on the list.
The No. 1 and No. 2 team all season long, lived up to the expectations during the regular season and provided dominance throughout the NCAA Tournament. The Bears on Monday night were the better team in every facet of the game.
Future first-round picks Jared Butler and Davion Mitchell both played at an elite level, while MaCio Teague cashed in 19 points, with Mark Vital adding eight offensive rebounds.
Heading into the next decade, this is a game that can propel the program to new heights. It also creates stability within the program and potential for this game to be replaced. However, for now, the 2021 National Championship stands alone and might for a long time.
Honorable mention: December 1, 2012. 64-55 win over No.8 Kentucky
Iowa State
November 17, 2013. 77-70 over No. 7 Michigan
The beginning of the 2013-2014 season was special for the Cyclones. Aided by their 14-0 start, Iowa State reached as high as No.8 in the AP Rankings. What win was highlighted during that run was an upset win in Hilton against No.7 Michigan.
The Wolverines went on to have multiple NBA-level guys, led by Caris LeVert, Glenn Robinson, and Nik Stauskas.
What could be considered one of the best six-men of the decade, it was Melvin Ejim that stole the show. While logging in 28 minutes, Ejim had 22 points, nine rebounds, and three steals on eight of 14 shooting from the field.
Nas Mitrou-Long and Georges Niang were able to score while suffocating Michigan’s three-point shooting. Outside of Stauskas, Michigan made four of their 19 three-pointers and only made four free throws.
That season would be one of Iowa State’s best this past decade, with a Big 12 tournament championship, to go with a Sweet 16 appearance.
Honorable mention: March 28, 2014. 75-73 win over No. 17 North Carolina.