Baylor Basketball Wins Preseason Exhibition Games

The Bears secured victories over Florida and Illinois in preparation for the upcoming 2026-27 season.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Basketball

Baylor Basketball Wins Preseason Exhibition Games

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Baylor basketball opened their preseason with notable wins against Florida and Illinois. The Bears look to improve upon their 17-17 record from the previous campaign.

Why it matters

Strong performances in exhibition play provide momentum for Baylor as the team prepares for the start of the regular season in late October 2026. These games allow the program to integrate new scoring threats and refine defensive strategies before official competition begins.

Kayden Mingo tallied 31 points and 8 rebounds during a 39-minute appearance in the 82-76 win over Florida, while Isaac Williams IV contributed 28 points in the victory against Illinois.

The players

Kayden Mingo

He is a key offensive contributor for the Baylor basketball team who recorded significant point totals during the preseason.

Isaac Williams IV

He is a primary scorer for the squad who posted 28 points in the exhibition matchup against Illinois.

Dylan Mingo

He is a member of the Baylor roster who contributed 12 points in the team's victory over Florida.

The details

Kayden Mingo led the effort against Florida by shooting 9 of 15 from the field and 11 of 15 from the free-throw line, while Dylan Mingo added 12 points in the same matchup. Against Illinois, Kayden Mingo maintained his scoring rhythm by shooting 9 of 20 from the floor.

The team finished the previous season with a 17-17 record.
Exhibition games against Florida and Illinois occurred in October 2026.
The regular season is scheduled to begin in late October 2026.

Season Trajectory

Building off a 17-17 finish in the 2025-26 season, these exhibition wins establish an early positive narrative for Baylor's rotation. The coaching staff is using this stretch to evaluate roster depth and defensive adjustments ahead of the conference schedule.

Kayden Mingo has emerged as a high-usage player who could anchor the team's primary scoring rotation throughout the year. His efficiency from the free-throw line and field goal attempts will be a critical factor in the team's ability to secure wins during the regular season.

The takeaway

Baylor has demonstrated offensive versatility through early scoring bursts from their lead guards. Fans should monitor defensive improvements as the team transitions from exhibition play into the more competitive regular season schedule.