As the 2025-26 Texas Tech basketball season unfolds, anticipation builds around the team’s potential. Head coach Grant McCasland reflects on the previous year’s success, where the Red Raiders finished strong in the Big 12 Conference. The team secured a win against Houston, a formidable opponent, and made it to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA tournament. However, dramatic moments, such as missed free throws, kept them from reaching the Final Four.
Tough Analysis for the Upcoming Season
Heading into the current season, the expectations for Texas Tech basketball are high. The Red Raiders have been predicted to finish third in the Big 12 and have secured a Top 15 ranking in preseason polls. Key returning player JT Toppin, a consensus All-American and reigning Big 12 player of the year, aims to lead the squad once again. However, the team features a mix of new faces and youth that adds an element of uncertainty.
Team Composition and Key Players
- Returning Players: JT Toppin, Christian Anderson
- Newcomers: Donovan Atwell, Tyeree Bryan, among others
- Team Demographics: Majority sophomores and freshmen, with only two seniors in significant roles
The inexperience of this year’s roster is strikingly different from last year’s depth. As the season progresses, new players must adapt to McCasland’s vision. This lack of seasoned experience raises questions about their performance in high-pressure situations.
Potential Big 12 Performance
Projections suggest Texas Tech will compete tightly within the Big 12 Conference, with their record expected to mirror last year’s 24-7 performance. The schedule will challenge the team, particularly their home-and-home series against top rivals such as BYU, Houston, and Colorado. This complex scheduling could hinder their elevation to the elite status many seek.
| Predicted Top Teams | Projected Record |
|---|---|
| Texas Tech | 14-4 |
| Houston | 14-4 |
| Arizona | 14-4 |
| Kansas | 14-4 |
| BYU | 14-4 |
The potential for multiple teams to finish with identical records increases competition. However, the inconsistency created by the lack of a true round-robin format adds complexity to rankings.
Concerns for March Madness
Despite optimistic predictions, doubts linger about the team’s guard depth. The majority of guards are either freshmen or sophomores with limited game experience. This issue raises concerns about their ability to perform in March Madness. Inexperienced players need quality minutes to prepare for postseason play.
Coach McCasland typically utilizes a tight seven-man rotation. This season may require adjustments to allow young players to gain the experience needed for potential success in the NCAA Tournament. The Red Raiders’ journey this year remains uncertain, and while their ceiling seems high, clarity will come only as the season progresses.
