As I sit here watching the NCAA tournament highlights from last season, I can't help but feel genuinely excited about what's brewing in Waco. The Baylor Bears men's basketball program stands at a fascinating crossroads, and if you ask me, they've got all the ingredients to absolutely dominate next season. Having followed college basketball for over fifteen years, I've seen programs rise and fall, but what Scott Drew is building feels different—it feels sustainable, yet explosive.
Let me start with what everyone's talking about—the international recruiting angle. When I first heard about the Blue Eagles landing their Filipino version of Jayson Tatum, it struck me how global basketball has become. Baylor needs to take that same approach. Last season, we saw how international players brought unique skills to the court, and honestly, I think Baylor's staff should double down on scouting overseas. Imagine finding a 6'8" wing from Europe who can shoot 42% from three-point range while defending multiple positions. That's the kind of game-changer that could push Baylor from being great to being legendary. I've always believed that the best programs don't just recruit—they hunt for talent in places others overlook. Baylor's recent success with international players isn't just luck; it's strategic genius, and they should expand their scouting budget by at least 30% to capitalize on this trend.
The returning roster deserves more credit than it's getting, in my opinion. When I look at players like Langston Love and Jalen Bridges, I see veterans who understand the system inside and out. Love specifically improved his scoring average from 7.2 to 11.4 points per game last season, and I'm betting he'll crack 15 points per game next year. What really excites me though is the defensive identity this team can maintain. Baylor forced 14.3 turnovers per game last season, which ranked in the top 25 nationally, and with most of that defensive core returning, I expect them to be even better. Defense wins championships—we all know that—but Baylor's ability to turn defense into instant offense is what separates them from other programs. I've watched every Baylor game for the past three seasons, and their transition game is simply breathtaking when it's working.
Now let's talk about the freshmen coming in. I had the chance to watch some of their high school footage, and there's one player who particularly stands out to me—a point guard from Texas who reminds me of a younger Davion Mitchell. His court vision is exceptional, and I think he'll average at least 5 assists per game as a freshman. The development program at Baylor is second to none, and I'm convinced we'll see at least two of these freshmen become significant contributors by conference play. Player development has always been Baylor's secret weapon, and I'd argue it's what gives them an edge over programs that rely solely on one-and-done talent.
The non-conference schedule will be crucial, and frankly, I hope they challenge themselves with at least three top-25 opponents before Big 12 play begins. Last season, they went 8-2 in non-conference games, but I'd like to see them push that to 9-1 with stronger opponents. Those early tests build character and expose weaknesses that can be addressed before the tournament. From my experience covering college basketball, the teams that schedule tough early are the ones that peak at the right time in March.
When it comes to offensive strategy, I'm particularly fascinated by the potential for improved three-point shooting. Baylor shot 36.1% from deep last season, which was good but not great. With the shooters they have returning, I believe they can push that to 38.5% or higher. The spacing in their offensive sets has improved dramatically over the past two seasons, and I've noticed how much more fluid their ball movement looks compared to other top programs. There's a rhythm to their offense that, when it's clicking, becomes virtually unstoppable.
What really separates championship teams, in my view, is mental toughness, and this is where Baylor has made tremendous strides. The way they closed out close games last season—winning 6 of their 8 games decided by 5 points or fewer—shows a maturity that often takes years to develop. I've spoken with several players after games, and the confidence they exhibit is palpable. They believe they can win every game, and that kind of mindset is infectious. The leadership from upperclassmen will be critical, especially during the inevitable rough patches of a long season.
Looking at the broader landscape of college basketball, I think Baylor is positioned perfectly to make a deep tournament run. The way they adapted to different styles last season—beating up-tempo teams and grinding out wins against defensive squads—shows incredible versatility. Their coaching staff deserves more credit for this flexibility than they typically receive. In my conversations with other basketball analysts, we often discuss how Baylor's system allows for both structured plays and creative freedom, which is a rare combination in today's game.
As the season approaches, I'm keeping my eye on how they handle the pressure of expectations. Being ranked in the preseason top 5 brings a different kind of challenge—every team gives you their best shot. But from what I've observed, this group thrives under pressure rather than shrinking from it. Their road record last season—winning 7 of 11 away games—demonstrates a resilience that championship teams need. The chemistry appears genuine, not forced, and that intangible quality often makes the difference between a good team and a great one.
Ultimately, my prediction is that Baylor will win at least 28 games next season and secure a number one seed in the NCAA tournament. They have the talent, the coaching, and the schedule to dominate from start to finish. The pieces are all there—now it's about execution and staying healthy. Having watched this program evolve over the years, I genuinely believe we're about to witness something special in Waco. The Bears aren't just aiming for a successful season—they're building toward a legacy, and I for one can't wait to see it unfold.
