TCU aims for a rare road sweep at Baylor, relying on clutch defense, emerging star David Punch, and balanced depth to seize momentum.
Momentum is a powerful thing in conference play, and the TCU Horned Frogs are starting to feel it again.
Winners of three straight, TCU heads south to Waco on Saturday looking to do something it hasn’t done in several years - complete a season sweep of longtime rival Baylor Bears.
Tip-off is set for 5 p.m. CT inside Foster Pavilion, and while the standings might suggest a mid-pack Big 12 clash, the matchup carries much more weight.
TCU’s conference losses have been narrow, the kind that can swing either way late, and that context matters as the Frogs continue to refine their late-game execution.
At the center of TCU’s recent surge is sophomore David Punch, who is playing some of the most efficient basketball in the league.
Punch has been a problem on both ends of the floor - finishing through contact, protecting the rim, and cleaning up possessions on the glass.
His ability to score without needing plays drawn specifically for him has allowed TCU to stay balanced offensively, especially when games tighten in the final minutes.
Senior Jayden Pierre is closing in on a career milestone and remains a steady perimeter threat, forcing defenses to stretch.
Meanwhile, guard play continues to be a quiet strength.
TCU’s ball movement and pressure defense often work together, creating extra possessions and easy transition opportunities, and that’s no accident.
The Frogs thrive when they dictate tempo, force turnovers, and turn defense into fast-break points.
That formula will be tested against a Baylor team that can score in bunches. The Bears feature one of the most efficient offenses in the country, led by Cameron Carr’s scoring punch and a backcourt that values the ball.
If Baylor gets comfortable early, TCU could find itself chasing. Limiting clean looks and disrupting rhythm will be essential.
History, however, leans quietly in TCU’s favor.
The Horned Frogs have been remarkably poised in Waco in recent seasons, winning tight games by staying disciplined late.
That composure showed up again earlier this month when TCU closed out Baylor in Fort Worth, leaning on bench production and timely free throws.
Saturday’s game also serves as a measuring stick with a brutal stretch ahead. With No. 6 Houston looming next week, this trip is about more than just a rivalry win; it’s about proving TCU can stack results away from home and turn narrow losses into statement wins.
If the Frogs defend with purpose, value possessions, and get their usual balance across the lineup, a sweep is very much on the table. The game airs nationally on ESPN2, but inside Foster Pavilion, it’ll feel anything but neutral.