I have to say Cox was 1st team AA at least partly based on reputation. Stats aren't everything, but her stat line just isn't particularly good. I didn't watch that much of Baylor. I hear that she is the best defensive post player in the country repeated often. I guess it must be true then? They overwhelmed most of their opponents with or without Cox. Smith and Egbo were good enough that they didn't seem to miss her too much while she was out injured. Scoring is modest, FG% well under 50% for a post player is poor, rebounding is solid but for comparison Pivec and Ionescu, both sub 6 footers, averaged more per game.
She's not a player that requires a lot of shots plus she looks to get others involved if the game isnt competitive. Cox isnt one to have a great stat line but she's the type of kid who will win titles because of how unselfishly she plays and always puts the team first. She's proven she can put a team on her back when needed and has no problem deferring to others when it suits the team. Defensively she is the best post to come through since Stewart or maybe even Griner. Outstanding shot blocker and just doesnt let others get going against her. Never needs weakside help for a double team. She thoroughly dominated Nelson-Ododa head to head so I'm not sure why this is a discussion. Rebounding she is very good, 8.4 per game is solid for a center who spends a lot of time in the high post offensively. Defensively her presence inside causes teams to take a lot of 3pt shots which lead to long rebounds that she isnt going to get. Her presence doesn't show up on a stat sheet for things like this but is a major reason why Baylor was one of the best defensive teams in the nation the past 2 years.
Baylor likely plays a much more competitive game against SC or wins if Cox is there. Egbo really struggled and Cooper took on too big of a load which led to poor decision making. Cox is a strong leader and wouldve kept Cooper's decision making in check while slowing down Boston. Aside from that game, Baylor was great without her but she wouldve made a difference.
I know it wasnt this season but I'm surprised you're low on her after she dominated Oregon a year ago. Was hands down the best player in the Final Four last year.
That said, her numbers werent great so I think 2nd team would've been an acceptable spot for her, but I'm glad the voters recognized her worth and all she brings to the table.