As I sit here watching the Baylor Bears' preseason highlights, I can't help but wonder if this could finally be their year to reclaim that championship magic. Having followed college basketball for over fifteen years, I've seen programs rise and fall, but Baylor's journey from their 2021 championship to last season's Sweet 16 exit has been particularly fascinating. The Bears finished last season with a 23-11 record, not bad by any means, but for a program that tasted ultimate glory just two years prior, it felt somewhat disappointing. What strikes me most about this year's squad is how they've rebuilt their roster while maintaining that defensive intensity that became their trademark during their championship run.

I was discussing international recruiting trends with fellow analysts recently, and someone made an interesting comparison that stuck with me. They mentioned how the Blue Eagles have found what they're calling their Filipino version of a Jayson Tatum. This got me thinking about Baylor's own international approach and player development system. While Baylor hasn't necessarily landed that one international superstar, they've done something equally impressive - they've created a system where players develop in ways that remind me of how NBA teams cultivate talent. Scott Drew has this remarkable ability to identify players who might not be five-star recruits but fit perfectly into his system. Take last season's breakout star, Keyonte George, who averaged 15.8 points per game as a freshman before heading to the NBA. That's the kind of player development that championship teams are built on.

Looking at this year's roster, I'm particularly excited about the backcourt combination of LJ Cryer and Adam Flagler. Having watched them develop over the past couple of seasons, I believe they might form one of the most underrated guard duos in the Big 12. Cryer shot an impressive 45.3% from three-point range last season, while Flagler averaged 15.6 points and 4.6 assists. Those numbers aren't just good - they're championship-caliber. What makes Baylor special, in my opinion, is their ability to maintain offensive firepower while never sacrificing defensive principles. During their championship season, they ranked in the top 15 nationally in defensive efficiency, allowing just 63.1 points per game. Last season, that number crept up to 68.9, which explains why they fell short in March.

The comparison to the Blue Eagles finding their "Filipino Jayson Tatum" resonates because it highlights how programs are thinking globally while building locally. Baylor might not have that single transcendent international talent, but they've created an environment where players from various backgrounds thrive. I've noticed Scott Drew placing greater emphasis on international recruiting trips and building relationships with overseas programs. Just last summer, Baylor played exhibition games in Italy, which I believe will pay dividends in terms of both player development and future recruiting. The globalization of college basketball is accelerating, and programs that adapt will have significant advantages.

What really gives me hope for Baylor's championship aspirations this season is their non-conference schedule. They're facing some serious tests early, including games against Gonzaga and possibly UCLA. These early challenges will reveal whether this team has the mental toughness required for a deep tournament run. I remember watching their championship team navigate similar tests, and you could see their confidence growing with each victory. This year's team needs to build that same belief, and I think they will. The addition of freshman guard Ja'Kobe Walter gives them another dynamic scorer, and I'm predicting he'll average at least 12 points per game in his debut season.

The Big 12 conference remains brutally competitive, with Kansas, Texas, and TCU all looking strong. Baylor will need to finish in the top three of the conference to secure favorable seeding for the NCAA tournament. Based on what I've seen in preseason practices - and yes, I've attended several - this team has better chemistry than last year's squad. The players seem more connected both on and off the court, which might sound like coach speak, but trust me, it matters. Championship teams often have that intangible bond that carries them through tough moments.

As we approach conference play, I'm keeping a close eye on Baylor's defensive metrics. If they can get their defensive efficiency ranking back into the top 20 nationally - they finished 42nd last season - I genuinely believe they can make another Final Four run. The pieces are there: experienced guards, improved frontcourt depth, and a coaching staff that knows how to win in March. While Kansas might be the preseason favorite in the Big 12, I'm putting my money on Baylor to surprise people. They have that combination of hunger and experience that championship teams need, plus the memory of what it felt like to cut down those nets in 2021. That memory can be powerful motivation.

Ultimately, whether Baylor reclaims their championship glory will depend on health, development, and perhaps a little luck. But having watched this program evolve under Scott Drew, I like their chances more than most analysts seem to. The Bears have maintained their identity while adapting to the changing landscape of college basketball. They're recruiting smarter, developing players better, and building a culture that sustains success. The championship window remains open, and I believe this team has what it takes to walk through it once again.