In Review: TCU 85 Baylor 81 Podcast and Thoughts

Baylor dropped their conference opener to the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs 85-81.  The Frogs were without one of their best players- Jaylen Fisher.  Baylor dug a big hole early trailing TCU 40-28 at half.  The Horned Frogs extended their lead to 19 early in the second half before the Bears made one of their customary late game comebacks.  A well designed set to Makai Mason gave him a chance to hit a three pointer that would have tied the game with under 10 seconds to play, but the Bears were unable to convert.  Here are my observations.  

Positives

• Team never quits.  We have come to expect this from Scott Drew teams.  They dig big holes too many times but they never go down easily.  Fans have to respect the fight that these guys show.  
• 53 points in the second half against a quality defensive team.  Hopefully that sparks something for the offense.  Tristan Clark had 18 points and Matthew Mayer chipped in 17 to help spark the comeback.  Makai Mason (15) and Mark Vital (11) were also in double figures as scorers.  Hopefully Mayer’s performance can be replicated by him in future games.  He has tremendous upside.  
• Jared Butler makes plays.  I think the team is better offensively with Jared Butler on the floor.  He is one of the few guys on the team that is able to create for others.  He gives energy and effort on both ends of the floor.  
• Still figuring out how to use our guys offensively.  We found some mismatches with Mario Kegler in the post and also coming off high ball screens.  

Needs Work

• Big opportunity to catch TCU flat without one of the top guards in the conference in Jaylen Fisher.  And Baylor came out making mistakes and not showing the necessary energy on both ends of the floor.  
• Defense took a step back today.  Couldn’t keep JD Miller off the glass and gave up too many quality looks to Desmond Bane.  
• Lack of urgency and focus on both ends of the court- disappointing.  

Need a good home crowd versus Iowa State on Tuesday.  Protecting the home court is a must.