Texas Tech Red Raiders: A Rising Force in College Basketball
The 2025-26 college basketball season is set to begin, and the Texas Tech Red Raiders are poised for a remarkable run. Ranked No. 10 in the AP Preseason Poll, the Red Raiders are ready to make their mark on the court.
But what's behind this impressive ranking? Let's dive in.
A Season of Excellence
Texas Tech is coming off a stellar 2025 season, reaching the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament. With a record of 51-20 in their first two seasons under head coach Grant McCasland, the team has proven its mettle. The Red Raiders are a force to be reckoned with, and their success continues into the upcoming season.
Star Players Return
The team welcomes back several standout players. JT Toppin, a junior, was named a consensus all-America, Big 12 Player of the Year, Big 12 Newcomer of the Year, and All-Big 12 First Team member last season as a sophomore. Christian Anderson, a freshman, earned All-Big 12 Freshman Team honors. These players will be key to the team's success.
Transfer Portal Strength
Additionally, Texas Tech welcomes five talented transfers: Tyeree Bryan (Santa Clara), LeJuan Watts (Washington State), Josiah Moseley (Villanova), Luke Bamgboye (VCU), and Donovan Atwell (UNC Greensboro). These additions further strengthen the team's depth and experience.
Non-Conference Schedule
The Red Raiders' non-conference schedule is packed with challenges. They will face No. 6 Duke, No. 14 Arkansas, and possibly No. 1 Purdue. These games will test the team's mettle and provide valuable experience.
Baha Mar Championship
Both Texas Tech and Purdue, the top-ranked Boilermakers, will participate in the Baha Mar Championship in mid-November. Tech will open against Wake Forest, while Purdue takes on Memphis on November 20. This tournament will be a crucial early test for both teams.
Season Highlights
Last season, Texas Tech finished with a 28-9 overall record and a 15-5 conference record, securing second place in the Big 12 standings. They advanced to the Elite Eight after impressive wins over UNC Wilmington, Drake, and Arkansas. Although they fell to the eventual national champion Florida, the Red Raiders' performance was remarkable.
AP Top 25 Ranking
Despite being unranked in the AP Top 25 Preseason Poll last season, Texas Tech finished the year ranked for seven straight weeks. This season, they are ranked No. 10, a testament to their consistent improvement and strong foundation.
A Program on the Rise
The Red Raiders have now been ranked in the AP Top 25 for a program-record nine straight seasons. Their highest ranking came in the 2018 season at No. 6. With a strong core of returning players and strategic additions, Texas Tech is set to make waves in the 2025-26 season.
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