- TCU secures first home NCAA Tournament victory in program history
- Madison Conner leads with 23 points and four 3-pointers
- Sedona Prince posts double-double despite early foul trouble
- Horned Frogs extend home winning streak to 23 games
- FDU Knights' 22-game win streak snapped in tournament debut
In a historic night at Schollmaier Arena, TCU women's basketball claimed its first-ever NCAA Tournament home victory with a decisive 73-51 win over Fairleigh Dickinson. The Horned Frogs showcased their offensive firepower and defensive resilience, led by standout performances from transfer stars Madison Conner and Sedona Prince. This victory marks TCU's first March Madness win since 2006 and sets up a high-stakes second-round matchup against Louisville.
The game turned decisively when Conner sank a momentum-shifting three-pointer late in the second quarter, sparking a 14-2 scoring run. Despite early foul trouble that limited Prince to just six first-quarter minutes, the 6'7center dominated the paint upon her return, recording 16 points and 10 rebounds. Hailey Van Lith's tournament experience proved invaluable, with the fifth-year guard contributing 13 points and seven assists.
TCU's transformation under second-year coach Mark Campbell reflects a growing trend in collegiate athletics. The Frogs have risen from a 1-17 conference record in 2022 to Big 12 champions, leveraging the transfer portal to assemble a roster with 14 combined NCAA Tournament appearances. This blueprint mirrors successful rebuilds at programs like Washington State and Ole Miss, demonstrating how strategic roster construction can accelerate turnaround timelines.
Regional analysis shows TCU's success is part of a Texas basketball renaissance. Within 200 miles of Fort Worth, five Division I women's programs have reached the NCAA Tournament this year - the highest concentration in NCAA history. The economic impact of hosting tournament games could bring an estimated $2.3 million to local businesses, according to Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce projections.
As TCU prepares to face Louisville, all eyes will be on Van Lith's reunion with her former team. The Horned Frogs' ability to maintain their physical style of play while limiting turnovers (just 9 vs FDU) will be critical against the Cardinals' pressure defense. With a sold-out home crowd expected Sunday, TCU aims to advance past the second round for the first time in program history.