Big 12 Blog

Player of the Week

LeBryan Nash, Oklahoma State

The physically imposing freshman finally had his "coming out party" this week in an upset victory over #2 Missouri. In the 79-72 victory, he dazzled the Cowboys crowd on his way to 27 points on 12-18 shooting from the field. He also showed consistency on his long range jump shot, draining 3-4 three-point tries for OK State. He also contributed four rebounds and four assists. His moves were more powerful, and he seemed to be playing on confidence. If he continues to have confidence in himself and his game, he could be ready for more standout performances.

Who’s Hot

J'Covan Brown, Texas

The 6’1" junior shooting guard is continuing his strong season. In a well-fought 69-66 loss to #3 Kansas, he put the complete package on full display. He scored 24 points for the Longhorns, as well as handing out seven assists, grabbing six rounds, and piling up three steals.

Honorable Mention

Tyshawn Taylor, Kansas- 22 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists in a 69-66 victory over Texas

Royce White, Iowa State- 15 points, 15 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals in a 62-55 loss to Texas

Perry Jones III, Baylor- 21 points and 12 rebounds in a 77-55 victory over Oklahoma

Who’s Cold

The Oklahoma Sooners

Oklahoma started the season off strong, but they are now fading with the beginning of conference play. This week, they fell to #7 Baylor by the score of 77-65. Then, they unraveled in an overtime defeat at the hands of Texas A&M, another reeling Big 12 squad. Their record in conference play is now 2-5. They need to turn it around, and fast!

Top 5: Backcourts in the Big 12

1. Missouri Tigers

The Tigers have the most explosive backcourt in the conference. It is comprised of Marcus Denmon, Phil "Flip" Pressey, Kim English, Michael Dixon, and Matt Pressey. They easily are one of the most talented team of guards in America.

2. Texas Longhorns

The Texas Longhorns backcourt may be young, but they are talented. Junior J’Covan Brown leads the squad, with freshman sensation Myck Kabongo running the team at the point guard position.

3. Kansas Jayhawks

Kansas’ power might be in their frontcourt, but their guards aren’t slouches. Tyshawn Taylor has been playing with a consistency that we haven’t seen his whole career, while Elijah Johnson and Travis Releford are emerging for KU.

4. Kansas State Wildcats

The Kansas State Wildcats are led by 6’6" junior Rodney McGruder. The rest of their backcourt is solid with sophomores Will Spradling and Shane Southwell, as well as junior Martavious Irving.

5. Iowa State Cyclones
 
The Iowa State Cyclones are led by twotalented transfers at guard. Former Michigan State star Chris Allen and Penn State transfer Chris Babb, as well as Scott Christopherson and Tyrus MGee log big minutes in Ames.

Conference Power Rankings:

1. Kansas 17-3 (7-0)
2. Missouri 18-2 (5-2)
3. Baylor 18-2 (5-2)
4. Kansas State 15-4 (4-3)
5. Iowa State 14-6 (4-3)
6. Texas 13-7 (3-4)
7. Oklahoma State 10-10 (3-4)
8. Oklahoma 12-7 (2-5)
9. Texas A&M 11-8 (2-5)
10. Texas Tech 7-12 (0-7)