Big 12 Tournament Sees Intense Matchups as Teams Battle for Championship

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The 2025 Big 12 Conference Tournament is set to deliver thrilling action as teams vie for the championship title. On Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 3 p.m. ET, No. 2 Houston will face Colorado in the quarterfinals at the T-Mobile Center.

This matchup comes after a series of intense games in the tournament’s initial rounds. The Cougars are looking to build on their impressive season, while Colorado seeks a crucial victory to advance further.

Houston enters the game with a strong season behind them, driven by key players looking to secure their spot firmly in NCAA Tournament discussions. Colorado, on the other hand, will rely on their dynamic offensive play and defensive strategies to keep Houston on their toes.

“The energy is high and everyone is excited to compete at this level,” said Houston guard Tramon Mark. “We know what’s at stake, and we’re prepared to give it our all.”

The Big 12 has already seen standout performances this tournament, including No. 17 BYU’s 96-90 victory over No. 12 Iowa State, where Richie Saunders scored 23 points and set a record for made three-pointers as the Cougars advanced. They will continue to build momentum as they look to make their mark in the championship rounds.

The tournament, which expanded this season to 16 teams, has garnered mixed reactions from fans and players alike, particularly regarding its scheduling and travel requirements. Amidst those challenges, league officials underscored their commitment to ensuring the athletes’ wellbeing.

“It’s important for us to prioritize our student-athletes’ health, especially in a taxing competition format like this,” stated Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark. “We’re aware of the wear and tear from travel and competition, and we are looking to meet those needs moving forward.”

As teams prepare for their respective matchups, anticipation builds for thrilling play and potential upsets that could change the landscape of the tournament. Both the Cougars and Buffaloes will aim to seize the opportunity to take a significant step toward a coveted championship title.

The remaining schedule for the Big 12 Tournament includes several exciting quarterfinal matchups, with teams such as Baylor and Texas Tech also set to battle on the same day. Fans can expect closely contested games, as each program looks to assert their dominance and secure their place in the semifinals.