What's Happening?
On February 1, 2026, the West Virginia Mountaineers women's basketball team defeated the Baylor Bears with a score of 70-60. Kierra Wheeler led the Mountaineers with a double-double, scoring 18 points
and securing 15 rebounds. Jordan Harrison also contributed 18 points to the victory. The win improved West Virginia's record to 18-5 overall and 8-3 in the Big 12 Conference. The game saw West Virginia extend a six-point halftime lead to 14 points late in the third quarter, maintaining a strong defense that limited Baylor's scoring opportunities. Baylor's shooting percentage was notably low at 30%, although they managed to score 27 out of 32 free throws. The Mountaineers capitalized on Baylor's turnovers, scoring 15 of their first 23 points from these opportunities.
Why It's Important?
This victory is significant for West Virginia as it strengthens their position in the Big 12 Conference, bringing them closer to the top of the standings. The win against a higher-ranked team like Baylor demonstrates West Virginia's competitive edge and potential for success in upcoming games. For Baylor, the loss could impact their standing in the conference, although they remain tied for first place with TCU following TCU's loss to Texas Tech. The performance of players like Kierra Wheeler and Jordan Harrison highlights the depth and talent within the West Virginia team, which could be crucial for their success in the remainder of the season.
What's Next?
West Virginia will face Colorado in their next game, scheduled for Wednesday. This upcoming match will be another opportunity for the Mountaineers to solidify their standing in the Big 12 Conference. Baylor will play against Cincinnati on Wednesday, aiming to recover from their recent loss and maintain their position at the top of the conference standings. Both teams will need to strategize and prepare for these games to ensure continued success in the season.
