The 2025-26 Baylor Bears basketball team experienced a dramatic turn of events during their game against Arizona State on Saturday afternoon, a moment that could serve as a pivotal point for the struggling squad. As the basketball world buzzed with high-stakes matchups like Arizona vs. Houston and Michigan vs. Duke, Baylor appeared to be an afterthought, playing a game that felt far from the marquee action they were once known for.
Head coach Scott Drew remains steadfast in his mission to inspire a late-season surge. He emphasized the importance of focusing on each game, as Baylor has five remaining contests against quality opponents in the Big 12. “I think right now, it’s probably like being on a battlefield. You’re not thinking in terms of surrender. You’re thinking, how do we win the battle?” Drew stated, reinforcing his commitment to cultivating a resilient mindset within the team.
Despite the Bears’ rough season, which has left postseason aspirations looking more like pipe dreams than achievable goals, there were glimmers of hope during the matchup against Arizona State. Facing a 59-55 deficit late in the second half, Baylor rallied with determination. Thanks to Yessoufou’s scoring and crucial plays from teammates, the Bears turned the tides.
Cameron Carr and Obi Agbim stepped up significantly in the final moments, with Agbim delivering a pivotal three-pointer and a crucial layup that brought Baylor ahead 73-68. His previous struggles from the field only made his late-game heroics more surprising and impactful. Agbim’s performance was not just a statistical improvement; it served as a much-needed third scoring option, something the Bears have been lacking throughout the season.
Though it may be too late for Baylor to confidently claim a postseason spot this year, the hope generated by Saturday’s comeback suggests that they could still forge a path forward. The resilience shown in their game against Arizona State signals that even in challenging times, victory can emerge from unexpected places, potentially setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to what has been a tumultuous season. The Bears may not be out of the fight just yet as they look to capture similar magic against upcoming opponents.