Texas Tech Lady Raiders Sweep No. 15 Baylor with 31-Point Rout

Team buy-in and reserve effort fuel the Lady Raiders' first season sweep of Baylor since 2004.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Texas Tech Lady Raiders overwhelmed No. 15 Baylor 87-56, earning their first season sweep of the Bears since 2003-04. The team's response to a challenge from head coach Krista Gerlich to reconnect with their identity fueled the dominant performance, led by a key effort from reserve player Mariam 'Mimi' Sanogo in practice mimicking Baylor's star rebounder.

Why it matters

This win marks a significant milestone for the Texas Tech program, as it is their first season sweep of Baylor since 2004 and their largest ranked win since 2000. It showcases the team's growth and ability to bounce back after a tough road loss, highlighting their commitment to their identity and roles.

The details

Mimi Sanogo, who averages less than 3 minutes per game, made a key impact in practice by immersing herself in the role of mimicking Baylor's leading rebounder Darianna Littlepage-Buggs. Littlepage-Buggs was held to just 3 rebounds, her second-lowest total of the season. The Lady Raiders shot 55.7% from the field and forced 20 Baylor turnovers, showcasing their connected and intense defensive effort.

  • Texas Tech earned its first season sweep of Baylor since the 2003-04 season.
  • The Lady Raiders' 31-point win over the No. 15 Bears was their largest ranked victory since 2000.

The players

Mariam 'Mimi' Sanogo

A reserve player who challenged herself in practice to mimic Baylor's leading rebounder, helping the Lady Raiders' defensive effort.

Krista Gerlich

The Texas Tech head coach who challenged her team to reconnect with their identity, leading to their emphatic response.

Darianna Littlepage-Buggs

Baylor's star player and the Big 12's leading rebounder, who was held to just 3 rebounds in the game.

Sara Sanogo

The Texas Tech forward who delivered one of her most impactful performances of the season with 10 points and 7 rebounds.

Bailey Maupin

The lone four-year Lady Raider who had never beaten Baylor in her career until this season sweep.

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What they’re saying

“She said, 'Coach, can I play on the scout team because I want to go rebound so that Bailey has to block me out?' That's so unselfish, right? That is a team player.”

— Krista Gerlich, Texas Tech Head Coach (on3.com)

“Baylor is a big matchup... we all have to show up... I just gave everything I had today.”

— Sara Sanogo, Texas Tech Forward (on3.com)

“It's an honor to be a part of a team that can get things done... but also just to have all of our names in the same history book together is something we'll cherish forever.”

— Bailey Maupin, Texas Tech Guard (on3.com)

What’s next

The Lady Raiders will look to continue their strong season when they travel to take on the Colorado Buffaloes, who have won 7 of their last 8 games and are eyeing Texas Tech as a chance to make a push for the Big 12 title.

The takeaway

This dominant win over a ranked Baylor team showcases the Texas Tech Lady Raiders' commitment to their identity and roles, as well as their ability to respond to adversity. The team's selfless and connected play has fueled their surge this season, putting them in position to potentially capture their first Big 12 title since 2000.