No bottom for the Big 12

The 2024-25 college basketball season is already proving one thing: there will be no easy games in the Big 12 this year. Whether it’s new faces, surprise performances, or established programs, the Big 12 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive leagues in the country this season.

Every league has stars though, so what makes the Big 12 so special? The possibility that the league just might have no bottom.

Kansas: A Championship Contender, As Usual

Kansas is off to a strong start, proving that they remain the team to beat in the Big 12.

The Jayhawks have already taken down top-tier programs like North Carolina and Michigan State, and with their depth and talent, they will continue to be a powerhouse.

Kansas has the pedigree, and they’re showing why they’re the top team in the country, but they’ll have plenty of competition in the conference along with challenging non-conference games including No.12 Duke on Tuesday.

Houston: Don’t Mess with Texas (Houston to be specific)

After winning 125 games over the last four seasons, the Cougars return one of the most talented and experienced college basketball teams in the country.

Despite a tough 74-69 loss to Auburn, Houston has shown that they will be a top contender this year.

Kelvin Sampson’s squad is loaded with talent and depth, even without senior forward Ja'Vier Francis back to full health he is making his time on the court notable one game at a time.

Iowa State: Consistency and Toughness

Iowa State has been one of the most consistent teams early on, and they look like a squad that’s ready to compete at the top of the conference. With a balanced attack on both ends of the court, they’re proving that they’re more than just a sprinter in the race.

The Cyclones’ physicality and toughness make them a tough team to run against for the entire 40 minutes of clock time.

Arizona: Offensive Firepower, Defensive Concerns

Arizona has shown that they can score with anyone, but they’ve also exposed some defensive vulnerabilities. A high-scoring 103-88 loss to Wisconsin. Still, with their offensive firepower, Arizona has more than enough to keep up with the best teams in the Big 12.

Baylor: The Return of VJ Edgecombe

Baylor is another team that looks to be a serious contender this season. VJ Edgecombe has quickly emerged as one of the league’s top players, showcasing his all-around skills with a 13-point, 10-rebound, 7-assist, and 3-steal performance against Sam Houston State. Showing that no team is safe when facing them.

Cincinnati: Red-Hot and Ready to Compete

Cincinnati has been one of the surprise teams early in the season. Senior wing Simas Lukosius has been on fire, averaging 17.7 points, 5.3 assists, and an incredible 71.4% from beyond the arc. With Lukosius leading the charge, Cincinnati looks like a legitimate contender.

Arizona State: Responding to Early Challenges

The Sun Devils enter with impressive victories over Santa Clara and Grand Canyon. Even more notable was their near-upset of No. 4 Gonzaga in an 88-80 loss, where Arizona State led for much of the game.

UCF: Defending Their Turf

With notable wins over Texas A&M and Florida Atlantic, both NCAA Tournament teams from last season and their tough defensive mindset UCF is showing that they won’t be an easy out for any team in the Big 12.

BYU: Freshman Star Egor Demin Shines

BYU has also made a strong statement early in the season, starting 4-0 behind the stellar play of freshman guard Egor Demin. At 6-foot-8, Demin has been a matchup nightmare, averaging 17.0 points, 7.5 assists, and shooting an incredible 55% from the 3-point line. This brings them a spark they haven’t seen in recent seasons.

Kansas State: Tough Loss, But Resilient

Kansas State may have been exposed in their 76-65 loss to LSU, but they are a team that can bounce back quickly. The Wildcats struggled on the boards, being outrebounded 43-25, but their toughness and depth will keep them competitive in the Big 12.

Texas Tech: Awaiting Their First Test

Texas Tech has yet to face a true test, but they’ll get their first real challenge tonight against Saint Joseph’s. The team has a strong roster and coaching staff, they should prove to be electric once rolling.

TCU, Colorado, Oklahoma State, Utah, and West Virginia

These teams may be sitting lower in the rankings, but don’t let that fool you. TCU, Colorado, Oklahoma State, Utah, and West Virginia all have the potential to make noise as the season progresses. Early losses and struggles are part of the game, and with the depth in the Big 12, no team can underestimate these programs.

The early season has shown that the Big 12 is as deep as ever. Every team in the league has the talent to compete at a high level making every game a battle.

Bronwyn Liber is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email brl5354@psu.edu.