Big 12 Scraps LED Court for Remainder of Tournament

It turns out flashy isn't always better. The fancy LED basketball court used during the women's Big 12 Tournament was also used during the first several rounds of the men's Big 12 Tournament. But that run is officially over.

Big 12 Going Back to a Wooden Court

After completing the first three rounds of the men's tournament using the high-tech glass surface, the Des Moines Register reports that the Big 12 is switching back to a wooden basketball court for the remainder of the tournament. The reason? Mixed reviews from coaches and players. Kansas' 78-73 win over TCU was the final game played on the fancy floor.

A Familiar Playing Surface for the Players

The Register reports that Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark decided to make the switch after talking with the coaches of all four semi-final teams. The switch to the hardwood floor will " provide our student-athletes with the greatest level of comfort on a huge stage this weekend." The Register reports that Friday's semi-final games, including Iowa State vs. Arizona, and Saturday's championship game, will be played on the traditional wooden court.

When Will the Glass LED Court Be Back?

I'll admit that the LED court looked cool on TV. But reports are that the court became slippery. Player safety must always come first, no matter how cool the product looks.

The semifinal games tonight start with #5 seed Iowa State taking on #1 seed Arizona at 6 p.m., followed by #2 seed Houston against #3 seed Kansas at 8:30 p.m. Both games can be seen on ESPN2.