The excitement is palpable as the No. 3-seeded Texas Tech Red Raiders prepare to face off against No. 11-seeded Drake University in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Scheduled for Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 5:10 p.m. CT in Wichita, Kansas, this match promises to be a thrilling contest between two skillful teams.
As the tournament progresses, both teams have demonstrated impressive capabilities, positioning themselves as strong contenders. Drake comes into the game boasting the No. 2 scoring defense in the nation, allowing a mere 58.4 points per game, a statistic that highlights the Bulldogs’ defensive prowess. Head coach Grant McCasland acknowledged this strength, indicating that the Red Raiders must not underestimate Drake’s fierce defensive play. “For not having a huge team, and what people would consider maybe not an athletic team, they're one of the most physical and tough teams that you'll play against,” McCasland stated.
On the flip side, Texas Tech showcases a formidable offense, currently ranked No. 28 in the nation with an impressive 80.9 points per game. Their recent performance against the University of North Carolina Wilmington was nothing short of spectacular, where they set a school record with 46 three-point attempts in their 82-72 victory. Key to this offensive charge is Texas Tech's standout sophomore forward, JT Toppin, who not only leads the team but also earned the title of Big 12 Player of the Year. With an average of 17.9 points and 9.2 rebounds per game, Toppin has proven to be a driving force for his team, recording his 16th double-double of the season with a notable 12 points and 11 rebounds against UNC Wilmington.
Drake's scoring threat comes from junior guard Bennett Stirtz, who averages 19.2 points per game, a notable achievement that ranks him at the top of the Missouri Valley Conference. Stirtz made waves in his team’s first-round matchup against the University of Missouri, leading the Bulldogs to a 67-57 victory with 21 points. The clash between Stirtz’s scoring ability and Toppin’s prolific play sets the stage for an exciting showdown.
As both teams prepare for this pivotal match, the coaching styles and preparation methods come into play. Coach McCasland emphasized the significance of game execution, highlighting that keen adjustments during the game will be what ultimately determines the winner. “I think that's what you'll see, the quality of the adjustments being made over the course of the game that try to give our teams the best chance,” he remarked.
Familiarity also plays a role in this matchup, particularly for Texas Tech’s sophomore guard, Kevin Overton. The Oklahoma City native previously played for Drake before transferring in the offseason. Overton expressed excitement about facing his former team, acknowledging the unique dynamics of the situation. “I think it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Overton noted, adding that the focus remains on his contribution to help Texas Tech advance to the Sweet 16.
The game promises to be broadcasted across various platforms including TNT, Max, and the Red Raiders Sports Network, with additional coverage available on the Tech Athletics website. Whether rooting for the Red Raiders or the Bulldogs, fans are sure to be treated to a compelling display of collegiate basketball.
The stakes are high as both teams look to secure their place in the next round of the NCAA Tournament. For Texas Tech, a school with a storied NCAA history, this victory would mark another step toward proving themselves as serious championship contenders. The Red Raiders boast a record of 26-8 this season and have shown resilience by advancing to the tournament several times in recent years. They have participated in the Big Dance seven times in the last eight seasons and notably reached the national championship game in 2019.
Texas Tech's success can also be attributed to their high-powered offensive efficiency. According to KenPom analytics, Texas Tech ranks fifth in adjusted efficiency, reflecting their impactful play on the court. They also shine in three-point shooting, hitting an impressive 37.4%. This season, six different players average more than one made three-pointer per game, further emphasizing the breadth of talent on their roster.
Three players who particularly stand out for the Red Raiders include Toppin, Darrion Williams, and Kerwin Walton. Williams adds a significant contribution with an average of 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists per game. Walton, a fifth-year senior, previously showcased his excellence by scoring 27 points against UNC Wilmington, including a remarkable eight three-pointers. However, the fate of Chance McMillian remains uncertain as he has been sidelined due to an upper-body injury, leaving his status a game-time decision. His absence will be felt more keenly as he is a 14-point-per-game scorer and leads the team in made threes.
The Texas Tech and Drake matchup is not just an encounter of solid teams; it also highlights strategic elements pivotal to the game’s outcome. With Drake’s offense known for its fast-paced transitions and Texas Tech's reputation for tenacious man-to-man defense, the battle promises to be intense. The teams will prioritize rebounding and minimizing turnovers, essential for controlling the game tempo and seizing opportunities when they arise.
As fans eagerly anticipate what promises to be a thrilling clash in the NCAA Tournament, many experts speculate about the potential for an upset given Drake’s recent momentum. Nevertheless, Texas Tech’s experience and high-caliber performance suggest they might have the upper hand in this encounter.
In summary, this highly anticipated second-round matchup is a testament to the hard work and determination both teams have exhibited throughout the tournament. With seasoned players and passionate coaches at the helm, the game is sure to deliver excitement and showcase the very best of college basketball.
