Baylor Bears Host Kansas State Wildcats in Key Big 12 Matchup

The Baylor Bears (23-6) are set to conclude their home schedule with a significant Big 12 Conference game against the Kansas State Wildcats (15-14) on Monday, February 23, 2026. The matchup will take place at Foster Pavilion, starting at 7:00 PM ET, and will be broadcast live on ESPN2.

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Baylor enters this game after a strong performance, bouncing back from a previous loss to Texas Tech with a 74-60 victory over Arizona. This win keeps the Bears tied with West Virginia for second place in the Big 12, holding a conference record of 12-4, just one game behind TCU. Taliah Scott led the Bears in scoring with 22 points, supported by Marcayla Johnson with 12 points and Darianna Littlepage-Buggs contributing 10 points. Bella Fontleroy also made a notable impact, securing 10 rebounds, while Jana Van Gytenbeek provided eight assists.

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In contrast, Kansas State is struggling, having fallen to an 8-8 record in conference play after a 75-68 defeat against Kansas. Tess Heal was the standout player for the Wildcats, scoring 19 points and recording seven assists. Nastja Claessens and Brandie Harrod each added 13 points, with Harrod also achieving four steals. However, Kansas State faced significant challenges on the boards, being out-rebounded 38-19.

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Baylor has a favorable historical record against Kansas State, winning their only meeting last season and holding a 44-12 advantage in the all-time series. This context adds an additional layer of significance to the upcoming game, as Baylor aims to maintain their dominance.

Newsweek

For Baylor, Taliah Scott is a crucial player, averaging 20.4 points per game. Darianna Littlepage-Buggs is also a key contributor, averaging 10.9 points and leading the Big 12 with 10.2 rebounds per game. Jana Van Gytenbeek is instrumental in playmaking, averaging 6.3 assists per game.

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On the Kansas State side, Taryn Sides leads the Wildcats with an average of 12.7 points per game, while Claessens and Harrod provide additional scoring support with averages of 11.8 points and 5.1 rebounds, respectively.

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This game is pivotal for both teams as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season. For Baylor, a win would solidify their position in the upper tier of the Big 12 standings, while Kansas State seeks to improve their conference record and momentum heading into postseason play.

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Baylor's recent performance has been praised by analysts, highlighting their resilience after a tough loss. Kansas State's coaching staff has emphasized the need for improved rebounding and defensive strategies to compete effectively against a strong Baylor team.

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This matchup promises to be an exciting contest in women's college basketball, showcasing two teams with contrasting trajectories as they approach the end of the regular season.

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