From junior college obscurity to clutch performances, Edmonds' late-game heroics propel TCU's thrilling ascent toward March Madness contention.
A year ago, Xavier Edmonds was grinding through junior college gyms, trying to prove he belonged on a bigger stage.
Today, he’s doing far more than just belonging; as KillerFrogs reported, he’s helping carry TCU men’s basketball through critical Big 12 moments when the margin for error is razor-thin.
Edmonds’ rise from Salt Lake Community College to becoming a trusted weapon in Jamie Dixon’s rotation has been one of the most encouraging developments of the Horned Frogs’ season.
It’s not just the numbers that stand out, either. It’s when those numbers are coming and how he’s producing them.
TCU saw that growth firsthand in back-to-back wins over Oklahoma State and Baylor. Against the Cowboys, Edmonds provided steady offense when the game threatened to slip away. Late buckets, smart positioning, and an ability to finish through contact helped swing momentum back to the Frogs during a tense comeback.
Those are the kinds of plays that don’t always show up in highlights but often decide games.
The Baylor win, however, was the real turning point. With leading scorer David Punch sidelined, TCU needed someone to shoulder the load down the stretch, and Edmonds didn’t hesitate.
Baylor’s strategy was clear ... send Edmonds to the free-throw line and hope the pressure got to him. Instead, he calmly knocked down shot after shot, turning a perceived weakness into a weapon.
That performance wasn’t just about confidence; it was about growth.
Free throws are as much mental as physical, and Edmonds showed poise that belied his experience level. Finishing with a career-high scoring night and a double-double on the road, he looked like a player ready for bigger responsibilities.
For Jamie Dixon, Edmonds’ emergence couldn’t come at a better time.
The Big 12 grind doesn’t slow down, and depth matters when legs get heavy in February. Having a forward who can rebound, defend, score efficiently, and step up in late-game situations changes how opponents have to game plan against TCU.
Looking ahead, Edmonds’ role could become even more important.
Matchups against elite teams like Houston demand toughness inside and composure under pressure. If Edmonds continues trending upward, TCU gains a legitimate secondary option who can stabilize the offense when defenses key on the Frogs’ primary scorers.
Every NCAA Tournament team has a player whose story mirrors the program’s grit and growth.
Right now, Xavier Edmonds is shaping up to be that guy for TCU. If this stretch is any indication, his JUCO days are firmly in the rearview mirror ... and the Horned Frogs are better for it.