Baylor University’s women’s basketball team is welcoming back a key player just in time for the excitement of March Madness. Junior forward Darianna Littlepage-Buggs has carried the weight of significant expectations this season, showcasing her exceptional talent as one of the best players in the Big 12 before missing over a month due to a right knee injury. Following her absence, the team announced her return via a lighthearted mock press release on social media. The post, which simply stated, “She’s back,” has gone viral, accumulating an impressive 30,000 views in a matter of hours and igniting hope amongst fans and teammates alike.
Littlepage-Buggs was named First-Team All-Big 12 after averaging a double-double with 14.3 points and 10.5 rebounds per game before her injury. Resilient and ready to compete, she expressed her feelings upon returning to action: “I’m so excited to be back with my teammates. I think that’s what I missed the most, and just basketball aside, I love my teammates so much.”
Head coach Nicki Collen confirmed that while Littlepage-Buggs will be on a minutes restriction at the beginning of the NCAA tournament, her presence alone brings an array of advantages. “I’m just excited to see her back out there, getting on the glass, rolling to the rim — you know, all those very Buggs-like things,” Collen remarked. For the Bears, having Littlepage-Buggs back not only boosts morale but adds depth to a roster that adapted remarkably well during her absence. Baylor finished with a 5-2 record, including two impressive victories against ranked opponents.
The fourth-seeded Bears are set to tip off against the No. 13 Grand Canyon University Antelopes on March 21, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at the Foster Pavilion in Waco, Texas. This is a landmark moment as it represents the first time the Bears have hosted an NCAA tournament game in person since 2021.
During a pre-game press conference, players Bella Fontleroy and Aaronette Vonleh reflected on their team’s growth while facing challenges in Littlepage-Buggs’ absence. Fontleroy described the motivation to host being substantial and surging with excitement as March Madness unfolds. “It’s just been great that we put ourselves in the position at this time of the year to be able to host. We’re definitely going to take advantage of that and just having the home court advantage,” she said.
As the players addressed the media, anticipation swelled as they prepare to face Grand Canyon. Vonleh predicted that Grand Canyon might not hold much height, but they possess grit and tenacity. She said, “They aren’t the tallest, but they are very scrappy, and they’re very aggressive.”
The teams are going into the match under different circumstances. Baylor has had an impressive season marked by a strong finish; they went undefeated in February and are currently ranked 14th in the AP Top 25 Poll. On the other hand, Grand Canyon comes into the tournament with a stellar 32-2 overall record and a perfect 19-0 in Western Athletic Conference (WAC) action. Their confidence is surging from a ten-game winning streak, which adds psychological momentum amusingly juxtaposed against Baylor’s own strong ascent.
Expectations are high for both teams, but for Baylor, the return of Littlepage-Buggs could provide the boost they desperately need. Coach Collen emphasized the importance of her return, not just in terms of scoring or rebounding but in boosting the team’s overall energy and morale. “It’s not going to be the same as before she was injured,” Collen noted, underscoring the strategic adjustments that may be necessary as Littlepage-Buggs eases back into her role amidst a minutes restriction.
Strategically, Baylor aims to leverage its height and physicality against Grand Canyon, who utilizes fast-paced strategies and aggressive defensive tactics. Littlepage-Buggs, known for her rebounding prowess, will be critical in executing this game plan. Despite her limited time on the court, her impact is expected to reverberate throughout the game.
With continued support from their fanbase, the excitement around their NCAA tournament journey is palpable. Littlepage-Buggs is looking forward to this moment, stating, “I think everyone is excited to be comfortable at home. We need to focus and prepare properly to carry through every level of the tournament.”
As Baylor gears up for an electrifying tournament run, their strong sense of unity and leadership will be crucial to navigate the high-stakes environment of March Madness. With such a talented yet adaptive roster, they possess the right mix of determination and skill to make a deep run in the tournament, buoyed by the anticipated return of their star player.
For fans and players alike, this is a momentous time filled with hope as the Baylor Bears prepare for their NCAA Tournament journey.
