Despite a slight drop, TCU's strong resume and tough schedule prove they're still a Big 12 force aiming for March.
Being ranked in the top 10 is never permanent real estate in women’s college basketball, and TCU learned that lesson again this week.
After briefly enjoying life at No. 9, the Horned Frogs slid to No. 12 in the latest AP Poll following a narrow loss to Ohio State.
It’s a small drop, but it underscores just how unforgiving the national landscape has become.
The setback against the Buckeyes didn’t signal a collapse - far from it. In fact, the margin between Ohio State at No. 11 and TCU at No. 12 was razor-thin, separated by just a handful of voting points.
Poll movement in January is often less about flaws and more about timing, matchups, and who survives the week without a blemish.
Mark Campbell’s Horned Frogs remain one of the Big 12’s most consistent teams, and their overall body of work still stacks up well nationally.
TCU is one of only four Big 12 programs currently ranked, joining Baylor, Texas Tech, and West Virginia. That limited representation reflects both the strength of the league at the top and the challenge of earning recognition week after week.
While TCU’s list of wins over ranked opponents is short, context is important.
The Horned Frogs have beaten teams that are hovering just outside the poll and recently handled UCF to steady themselves after the Ohio State loss.
Earlier victories over quality competition, including a win against a then–top-10 NC State squad, continue to carry weight with voters even if those teams have since slipped.
Nationally, the poll illustrates a clear hierarchy.
UConn remains untouchable at No. 1, while the rest of the top 10 reshuffles almost weekly. The SEC’s dominance is unmistakable, flooding the rankings with depth and elite talent.
Compared to that, the Big 12’s four ranked teams speak to quality over quantity, and TCU is firmly part of that core.
What makes the Horned Frogs’ situation encouraging is what lies ahead. The schedule offers opportunities, not traps.
A home matchup against Kansas provides a chance to build momentum, while a road trip to face Texas Tech could serve as a season-defining moment. Games like those matter more than poll slots in late January.
For TCU, the goal isn’t reclaiming a number next to its name ... it’s staying sharp, stacking wins, and peaking in March.
If the Horned Frogs do that, the rankings will take care of themselves.