In this episode of First and 16, we break down one of the most talked-about high school basketball matchups in the country: AJ Dybantsa vs Darryn Peterson. Who won the head-to-head battle, what stood out on the court, and what it means for the future of college basketball recruiting?

We also take a step back to discuss a growing concern in the sport — why college athletics must remain separate from professional sports, even in the NIL and transfer portal era. Where should the line be drawn, and what happens if it disappears completely?

Plus, we close the show with updated Big 12 basketball rankings, breaking down which teams are rising, which are slipping, and how the conference is shaping up as the season continues.

If you care about elite basketball prospects, the future of college sports, and Big 12 hoops, this episode has you covered.

On this episode of First and 16, we dive headfirst into way-too-early Big 12 power rankings, breaking down where each program stacks up heading into the next phase of the season—and which teams might be getting overlooked or overhyped.

We also shift gears to preview this weekend's Big 12 basketball slate, highlighting the must-watch matchups, potential upset alerts, and how conference play is starting to shape the postseason picture. From contenders trying to separate themselves to bubble teams that desperately need wins, we cover what matters most heading into the weekend.

Whether you're locked into Big 12 football storylines or tracking the chaos of conference basketball, this episode gives you the context, opinions, and early takes you need.

Indiana taking home the Big 12 title wasn't just a win for one program — it was a boost for the entire conference. In this episode, we break down how Indiana's championship elevated the Big 12's national perception, strengthened the league's résumé, and created momentum heading into next season. We also look at which Big 12 teams are positioned to take the next step, why depth across the conference is improving, and how the Big 12 could be even tougher from top to bottom moving forward.

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Tonight's national championship game could have ripple effects far beyond one trophy — especially for the Big 12.

In this episode, we break down how the outcome of tonight's title game could directly help the Big 12's national perception, why ESPN has largely ignored the matchup, and what that silence says about conference narratives in college basketball. We also dive into the latest AP Top 25 rankings, where the Big 12 continues to stack elite teams and make a strong early case for March Madness dominance.

If you care about rankings, media bias, and where college basketball is really headed, this is one you don't want to miss.

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After Texas Tech's latest loss, critics are once again asking the same question: Is the Big 12 in trouble? In this episode of First and 16, we dive headfirst into the national narrative surrounding the conference's future.

We break down why the Texas Tech loss sparked renewed doubt, examine whether those concerns are actually valid, and look at the broader perception problem the Big 12 continues to face. Then, we flip the script — analyzing why the future of the league may be far brighter than people think, from incoming programs and competitive depth to long-term stability and opportunity.

Is this the beginning of the end — or the start of something stronger? Let's talk Big 12 football.

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BYU and Houston delivered massive bowl wins that sent a clear message on the national stage: the Big 12 is built different. In this episode of First and 16, we break down how both programs dominated their matchups, what these victories mean for the future of the conference, and why the SEC's disastrous 0-2 bowl day matters more than national media wants to admit. Was this just a bad day for the SEC, or more proof that the Big 12 deserves far more respect? Let's get into it.

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In this episode, Adam dives into the uncertain future of college football bowl games as opt-outs surge, matchups lose meaning, and the postseason landscape shifts under the weight of realignment and revenue sharing. Then we flip to the hardwood, where the Big 12 is off to a scorching start and once again proving why it's the nation's premier basketball conference. From early statement wins to rising contenders, we break down everything you need to know as the season heats up.

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