The Texas Tech Red Raiders are entering the 2025-26 season with high expectations after a remarkable 2024-25. With a reloaded roster, elite coaching, and a passionate fanbase to cheer them on, the Red Raiders are all set to chase a national championship. Here’s a breakdown of our speculation of its prospects, key players, and challenges.
What Are Texas Tech’s Odds for a Successful National Championship This Season?
Texas Tech’s 2024-25 season was impressive, finishing with a 28-9 record and advancing to the program’s third Elite Eight. The team is now building on that momentum, anchored by the return of star forward JT Toppin, the 2024-25 Big 12 Player of the Year and a consensus All-American.
Toppin opted to forgo the 2025 NBA Draft, reportedly securing a significant Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal to stay in Lubbock. His 18.2 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game last season make him a preseason first-team All-American and a cornerstone for the Red Raiders.
The transfer portal has further strengthened Texas Tech’s roster with LeJuan Watts (Washington State) and Donovan Atwell (UNC Greensboro), who bring sharpshooting and scoring potential. Watts averaged 13.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, while Atwell posted 13.3 points per game. Both shoot over 39.8% from three-point range.
Tyeree Bryan (Santa Clara), who averaged 10.4 points, also joins the mix. These additions complement returning players like Christian Anderson (10.6 points per game) and Federiko Federiko, who started games last season, providing experience and stability.
However, the roster isn’t without losses. Key departures include Darrion Williams, a two-time All-Big 12 performer who averaged 15.1 points and 5.5 rebounds, to the transfer portal.
Chance McMillian and Elijah Hawkins did not graduate but also left the program, with McMillian’s departure noted in the context of roster changes. Kevin Overton and Eemeli Yalaho are reportedly entering the transfer portal, potentially impacting bench depth. Injuries can have further hits on the team.
Head coach Grant McCasland is a driving force behind Texas Tech’s rise. His 51-20 record over two seasons marks the best start for a coach in program history—point guard play, depth, NBA talent, and shot-making as keys to a March run. McCasland’s system led to a thrilling Sweet 16 overtime win over Arkansas in 2025.
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Texas Tech has climbed national rankings, jumping 19 spots to No. 3 in ESPN’s Way-Too-Early Top 25, behind only Houston and Purdue. CBS Sports ranks them No. 6 in their preseason Top 25 And 1. This steady rise in ranking further improves confidence towards a successful National Championship for Texas Tech.
However, the Big 12 presents may be the most challenging for Texas, with powerhouses like Houston, Kansas, Baylor, and Iowa State ready to challenge. Nevertheless, we will closely monitor the 2026 Final Four in San Antonio, where Texas Tech could make a historic run.
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