UCF Coach Praises Road Wins, Looks Ahead to Baylor

Knights chase strong finish in Big 12 play after victories at Utah and BYU.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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UCF men's basketball coach Johnny Dawkins praised his team's poise and preparation after securing road wins at Utah and BYU. However, Dawkins said the focus has already shifted to a talented Baylor team that will be visiting Orlando.

Why it matters

UCF is looking to finish the season strong in its inaugural Big 12 campaign after joining the conference this year. The Knights' recent road victories against tough opponents demonstrate their ability to win away from home, which will be crucial as they chase a high seed in the Big 12 tournament.

The details

Dawkins highlighted the team's focus and execution in the wins at Utah and BYU, two difficult road environments. The Knights will now turn their attention to hosting Baylor, another top Big 12 contender, as they aim to solidify their position in the conference standings.

  • UCF secured road wins at Utah on February 15 and BYU on February 22.
  • Baylor will visit Orlando to face UCF on March 2.

The players

Johnny Dawkins

The head coach of the UCF men's basketball team.

UCF

The University of Central Florida's men's basketball team, which recently joined the Big 12 Conference.

Baylor

A top contender in the Big 12 Conference, which will be visiting UCF on March 2.

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What they’re saying

“We've had some good road wins, and that's important as we continue to chase a strong finish in Big 12 play.”

— Johnny Dawkins, Head Coach (on3.com)

What’s next

UCF will host Baylor on March 2, in a key Big 12 matchup as the Knights look to solidify their position in the conference standings.

The takeaway

UCF's recent road victories against tough opponents like Utah and BYU demonstrate the team's ability to win away from home, which will be crucial as they chase a high seed in the upcoming Big 12 tournament.