TCU Basketball Picked Third in the Big 12

What is life.

TCU, who was picked dead last in the conference just one year ago, has skyrocketed up the standings in 2017, and is picked to finish third after the coming campaign. Jamie Dixon’s squad, who returns their top six scorers - led by preseason all-conference contenders Valdimir Brodziansky and Kenrich Williams - has momentum after the magical post-season run a year ago that culminated in an NIT Championship.

The top three selection is the highest ever for the Frogs, who are a sexy pick to make their first NCAA Tournament in 20 years this March. With star guards Alex Robinson, Desmond Bane, and Jaylen Fisher (who is expected to return from injury in early December) solidifying the backcourt, and a bigger, stronger JD Miller joining Kenny Hustle, and Vlad up front, TCU has the size, shooting, and defense to be a serious contender in what is likely to once again be the deepest conference in the country. And this is exactly where they want to be.

Exciting additions Kouat Noi (a definite newcomer of the year candidate), transfer Shawn Olden, big bodied Ahmed Hamdy, 47 year old man-child Kevin Samuel, and dynamic scorer RJ Nembhard joining the fold, Jamie Dixon has more depth than we have seen in Funky Town in decades.

The expectations are higher than they have been in years in Fort Worth, but the players and coaches welcome the challenge, especially veteran guys who have seen both failure and success in their time at TCU.

To no one’s surprise, Kansas was the unanimous pick to win the Big 12 for what would be a 14th straight time. West Virginia was picked second, despite the graduation of several key players, and behind the Frogs are Texas and Baylor, separated by only two votes. An intriguing Oklahoma team was voted sixth, followed by Texas Tech, Kansas State, Iowa State, and Oklahoma State.

If you missed our comprehensive season preview, you can check it out here.

The second season of the Jamie Dixon-led Horned Frogs begins Nov. 10 with an 8 p.m. game in Schollmaier Arena against ULM.

Season tickets are available to the public and on sale for $275. Fans may purchase tickets by visiting www.GoFrogs.com or calling (817) 257-TICK.