Texas Tech’s Statement Win Over BYU Shows Just How Dangerous This Team Can Be
Texas Tech’s 84-71 win over BYU wasn’t just another tick in the win column-it was a loud, confident reminder that when this Red Raiders squad is clicking, they’re capable of beating anyone in the country. The trio of LeJuan Watts, Christian Anderson, and JT Toppin showed out in a way that should have the rest of the Big 12-and maybe even the national landscape-paying close attention.
Watts brought the energy and scoring punch, while Anderson and Toppin continued to do what they’ve done all season: control the game. When those three are locked in, Texas Tech isn’t just good-they’re elite.
That win over Duke? Not a fluke.
This team has a high ceiling, and even with a slim margin for error due to depth concerns, they’re proving they can hang with anyone.
What’s Fueling Tech’s 4-1 Start in Big 12 Play?
Let’s not sugarcoat it-Texas Tech is doing more with less. A short bench and a lack of size haven’t stopped this team from jumping out to a 4-1 start in one of the toughest conferences in college basketball. Head coach Grant McCasland deserves credit for managing rotations and maximizing what he has.
What’s been most impressive? The consistent play of Anderson and Toppin.
Anderson is setting the table with his vision and playmaking, while Toppin is battling Big 12 bigs on the glass and holding his own. Their chemistry, especially in the pick-and-roll, has become a go-to weapon.
Despite heavy minutes and limited rest, these two have been reliable, dynamic forces.
And let’s not overlook how well the team has responded to adversity. They’ve been outmanned size-wise and outnumbered in terms of depth, but they’ve still found ways to win. That speaks volumes about their toughness and cohesion.
The X-Factor Moving Forward: LeJuan Watts
If Texas Tech is going to keep climbing-and maybe even make a deep run in March-LeJuan Watts is going to be a big reason why. Anderson and Toppin have been steady, but Watts is the swing piece. When he’s aggressive, confident, and attacking, this team reaches another level.
Opponents are starting to key in on Anderson and Toppin, throwing double teams and pressure their way. That opens the door for Watts to step up-and when he does, he makes opponents pay. Whether it’s knocking down shots or creating off the dribble, his ability to punish defenses for overcommitting elsewhere is critical.
And down the stretch, don’t be surprised if Luke Bamgboye’s name starts to come up more. If Tech is going to make a deep postseason push, they’ll need a little more from the bench-especially in the frontcourt.
Strengths, Weaknesses, and the Balancing Act
There’s no question what Texas Tech’s biggest strength is right now: the Anderson-Toppin connection. Their two-man game is borderline unguardable when they’re in rhythm.
They’ve figured out how to beat doubles, and their chemistry in the pick-and-roll is textbook. It’s the kind of synergy that can carry a team deep into March.
But the lack of depth is the elephant in the room. The starting five has been excellent, but the bench is thin, and that’s led to fatigue at times.
In a long, physical Big 12 season, that’s something to watch. One or two injuries or foul trouble in the wrong spot could shift the entire equation.
Still, the top-end talent is undeniable. There aren’t many teams in the country that can match what Anderson and Toppin bring night in and night out.
Looking Ahead: The Baylor Challenge in Waco
Next up? A big road test against Baylor in Waco.
And if there’s one stat that tells the story, it’s this: in Baylor’s four Big 12 losses, they haven’t cracked 64 points. In their lone win, they exploded for 94.
So the key for Texas Tech is simple-keep Baylor’s offense in check.
That starts with perimeter defense. Baylor hasn’t shot the ball well in conference play, and Tech will need to keep it that way.
Contest every three, close out hard, and don’t give them clean looks. Winning the battle on the boards will also be huge-second-chance points can swing a game on the road.
And then there’s foul trouble. With a short bench, Tech can’t afford to get into early foul issues. If they can stay disciplined, defend the arc, and keep the tempo in their favor, they’ve got a real shot to walk out of Waco with a statement win.
Bottom Line
Texas Tech isn’t sneaking up on anybody anymore. They’ve proven they belong in the Big 12’s top tier, and they’re doing it with grit, chemistry, and star power. The ceiling is high, the margin for error is thin, but if this team stays healthy and Watts continues to emerge, don’t be surprised if they’re still playing deep into March.