Player of the Week
Kim English, Missouri
The 6’6" senior looks like he is finally putting his intriguing skill set together in his final season of college basketball. In yet another blowout victory for the Missouri Tigers, he exploded for a season high 29 points in a rout of Binghamton. He shot a dazzling 11-15 from the field, including 7-10 from behind the 3-point line. He also contributed two assists and one steal in 27 minutes of action. Even more important is his thirst and ability to defend. If he can continue to shoot this effectively throughout the Big 12 season, as well as defend like he continuously does, he will be a shoe-in for Big 12 First Team honors.
Who’s Hot
Perry Jones III, Baylor
After sitting out the first five games of the season for Baylor, fans everywhere finally got to see what all the hype is about once he took the floor against Prairie View A&M this week. In 31 minutes, the 6’11" future lottery pick registered 27 points and six rebounds for the Bears. He shot 10-14 from the field, as well as 7-9 from the free-throw line. This season he is looking to prove to NBA scouts that he can be more effective and consistent on a nightly basis, while also showcasing better shooting numbers. He is off to a great start.
Honorable Mention
LeBryan Nash, Oklahoma State – 21 points on 6-13 shooting from the floor, 2-3 from the 3-pt line, and 5 rebounds in a 59-56 win over Tulsa
Myck Kabongo, Texas – 16 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds in an easy 73-57 win over North Texas
Who’s Cold
Texas Tech
After starting the season 3-1, the Red Raiders are at the bottom of the Big 12 barrel. On November 25th, they lost a 76-70 game to an always struggling DePaul program at home. The following game they played, they lost to a sub par Wake Forest team 70-61, again losing a winnable game at home. This does not bode well for Big 12 play, where they will be playing against teams that will almost all be better than both DePaul and Wake Forest. They are struggling for an identity right now, and need a leader to step up. Early on it has been Ty Nurse, but his numbers have regressed in recent games.
Top 5: Coaches
1. Bill Self, Kansas – Seven consecutive seasons of at least a share of a Big 12 title and a national championship banner. Need I say more?
2. Frank Martin, Kansas State – In just four years at K-State, has restored a winning mentality to the program. Has led the Wildcats twice to the Round of 32, as well as an Elite 8. Brought home the Big 12 Coach of the Year Award in 2010.
3. Lon Kruger, Oklahoma – The newly minted OU coach is fighting an uphill battle, but he is the right man for the job. Was a star head coach in previous stints at Illinois and UNLV before taking the Big 12 job.
4. Rick Barnes, Texas – While the Longhorns may be sputtering in NCAA Tournament play over the past few years, there is no denying his coaching resume. Two Sweet Sixteens, two Elite Eights, and one Final Four appearance, as well as regular NCAA Tournament appearances and 20 win seasons.
5. Scott Drew, Baylor – Has proved that he is a monster on the recruiting trail. Now he needs wins to back it up. The Bears look ready to make a run in the NCAA Tournament this year, but if they falter again, the fingers will be pointing at coach Drew.
Big 12 Power Rankings:
1. Missouri (6-0)
2. Baylor (6-0)
3. Kansas State (4-0)
4. Kansas (4-2)
5. Texas A&M (5-1)
6. Oklahoma State (4-2)
7. Texas (4-2)
8. Oklahoma (4-1)
9. Iowa State (5-2)
10. Texas Tech (4-3)