Texas Tech men’s basketball held its first official practice of the 2026-27 season Tuesday, with coach Grant McCasland describing the roster as one of the strongest groups he has coached. The Red Raiders will open the season Nov. 2 at United Supermarkets Arena.
McCasland cited the team’s athleticism, competitiveness and willingness to invest in one another as reasons for his optimism. He said the roster was assembled with the goal of remaining capable throughout the season, even as eligibility and injury questions remain unresolved.
Three players, Jamichael Stillwell, Darrion Williams and Donovan Atwell, remain on Texas Tech’s active roster while pursuing temporary injunctions related to eligibility. Williams was granted a fifth year of eligibility this week as part of a 31-player lawsuit. Atwell and Stillwell are involved in separate cases seeking an additional season.
Williams returned to Texas Tech after playing at NC State during the 2025-26 season. He previously spent two years with the Red Raiders and helped the team reach the Elite Eight during the 2024-25 season. McCasland said the return developed over the summer and that Williams eventually asked whether the coach would reserve a scholarship for him.
Atwell also returned to the program after making 45.8% of his 3-point attempts on a career-high 8.4 attempts per game last season. He received All-Big 12 honorable mention recognition.
