KEY POINTS
- The Baylor Bears defeated the Minnesota Golden Gophers 78-65 to advance in the CROWN tournament quarterfinals.
- A decisive 18-4 scoring run during the second half allowed Baylor to overcome a halftime deficit.
- Freshman standout V.J. Edgecombe led the offensive effort with 21 points and seven rebounds in the victory.
The Baylor Bears advanced to the semifinals of the CROWN tournament on Thursday night in Las Vegas. They earned a hard-fought 78-65 victory over the Minnesota Golden Gophers at the T-Mobile Arena. This quarterfinal matchup showcased a dramatic shift in momentum during the second half of play.
Minnesota initially controlled the pace of the game throughout the first twenty minutes. The Golden Gophers relied on efficient perimeter shooting to build an early lead. They entered the halftime break with a 38-33 advantage over the higher-seeded Bears.
Everything changed once the second half began as Baylor increased their defensive intensity. The Bears forced several key turnovers that led to easy transition points. This aggressive approach quickly erased the small Minnesota lead.
A pivotal 18-4 scoring run defined the middle portion of the second half. Baylor found success attacking the rim and drawing fouls from the Minnesota frontcourt. This surge allowed the Bears to take control of the game for good.
V.J. Edgecombe played a starring role in the Baylor victory. The talented freshman scored 21 points while providing energy on the glass. He also contributed three steals during the defensive lockdown in the second period.
Norchad Omier provided a significant presence in the paint for the Bears. He recorded a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds. His ability to secure second-chance opportunities proved vital during the fourth-quarter stretch.
Minnesota struggled to find their offensive rhythm after the halftime intermission. The Golden Gophers shot just 32 percent from the field during the second half. Their leading scorer finished with 18 points but faced constant double teams.
Baylor also won the battle on the boards throughout the contest. They outrebounded Minnesota 42-29, which limited the Gophers to single-shot possessions. This physical advantage allowed Baylor to maintain a double-digit lead late in the game.
The Bears now prepare for a semifinal clash against either Connecticut or North Carolina. That matchup will take place on Friday evening at the same venue. Baylor looks to maintain their current momentum as they chase the tournament championship.
Head coach Scott Drew praised his team for their resilience under pressure. He noted that the defensive adjustments at halftime were the primary factor in the comeback. The Bears have now won four consecutive games heading into the final weekend.
Tournament officials expect high attendance for the remaining rounds in Las Vegas. The inaugural CROWN event has attracted several top-tier programs this spring. Baylor fans traveled well to support their team in this late-season pursuit of silverware.
