In anticipation of the 2026-27 collegiate basketball season, Field Level Media's expert panel has cast their votes, placing Texas Tech at the 19th position in their coveted preseason Top 25 men's basketball rankings. The Red Raiders, led by Coach Grant McCasland, are looking to build upon a solid foundation, having accumulated an impressive 38-18 record in Big 12 conference play over the past three seasons. This upcoming season holds particular promise as the team sets its sights on securing a conference tournament championship, a goal that appears well within their grasp, especially if star player JT Toppin can make a strong return to peak performance by March.
A critical asset for the Red Raiders in the forthcoming season is senior Donovan Atwell, whose exceptional shooting prowess from beyond the arc makes him one of the nation's most formidable threats. Last season, Atwell demonstrated remarkable accuracy, hitting 45.8% of his three-point attempts and establishing a new school record with 130 successful treys. His impact on the team's success was evident, as Texas Tech posted a 9-2 record in games where he sank five or more long-range shots, underscoring his pivotal role in their offensive strategy. The team's ability to contend for top honors will heavily rely on his continued sharpshooting.
However, the path to success will not be without its obstacles. The Red Raiders are set to navigate early season challenges without the full strength of former Big 12 Player of the Year, JT Toppin. Toppin is currently in recovery from a torn ACL, with a projected return date in late December. This absence will undoubtedly test the team's depth and resilience, particularly during high-profile early matchups. Specifically, Texas Tech will be without Toppin for a significant home game against Illinois in Lubbock scheduled for November 10th, and a major clash against Louisville in Las Vegas on November 24th. These early tests will be crucial in assessing the team's ability to perform under pressure and adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
Adding a new dimension to the Red Raiders' roster is Cruz Davis, a transfer from Hofstra and a Texas native, who is poised to assume the crucial role of point guard. Davis brings an impressive resume, having been named the Coastal Athletic Association Player of the Year in 2025-26. His statistics from the previous season speak volumes about his all-around game, averaging 20.1 points, 4.7 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per contest. Furthermore, his efficiency from three-point range, shooting 40.0% from deep, indicates he will be a versatile and impactful addition to the team's backcourt. His integration into the squad is expected to provide a significant boost to their offensive and playmaking capabilities.
Texas Tech enters the 2026-27 season with high expectations, positioned at No. 19 nationally. The team boasts a strong core, including an elite shooter in Donovan Atwell and a promising new point guard in Cruz Davis. While facing the early season hurdle of JT Toppin's recovery from injury, Coach McCasland's proven leadership and the team's historical performance suggest they are well-equipped to contend for the Big 12 tournament title. The Red Raiders' journey will be one to watch as they aim to turn their preseason ranking into a memorable championship run.