On February 24, 2025, the United Supermarkets Arena will transform once again as it prepares to host one of the biggest matchups of the college basketball season—No. 9 Texas Tech Red Raiders versus No. 5 Houston Cougars. The anticipation surrounding this game has reached fever pitch, with tension met by excitement as the Red Raiders aim for their second consecutive victory against the Cougars.
Notably, this game will be attended by the incomparable Patrick Mahomes, former Texas Tech star and current Kansas City Chiefs quarterback, who has become somewhat of a talisman for the Red Raiders. His appearance alongside his wife, Brittany, is sure to galvanize the already spirited crowd. Mahomes, who usually attends the games without much fanfare, surprised the audience just before tip-off, eleving the already electric atmosphere to new heights (USA TODAY).
Texas Tech enters this game with strong momentum. The Red Raiders are coming off solid performance where they trounced West Virginia 73-51, showcasing their offensive prowess. The team has been performing impressively at home, scoring an average of 84.7 points at United Supermarkets Arena (Newsweek). Meanwhile, Houston, known for its formidable defense, is currently sitting atop the Big 12 standings and boasts the nation’s best defensive record, limiting opponents to only 57.7 points per game (Sportsline).
This encounter is highlighted as the rematch of the earlier encounter between these two foes on February 1, where Texas Tech narrowly edged out Houston 82-81 in overtime. This was Houston's only conference loss this season, and the Red Raiders hope to repeat their success on home turf. The stakes have never been higher—Texas Tech seeks not only to defeat Houston but also to improve their chances for higher seeding as they head toward the NCAA Tournament.
Fans will be eagerly watching several key players. Texas Tech’s leading scorer, JT Toppin, who averages 17.3 points per game, will be pivotal for the Red Raiders. Toppin’s ability to dominate near the basket against tough defenders like J'Wan Roberts and Joseph Tuggler from Houston will be of utmost importance. Toppin's scoring ability, combined with solid defensive plays, will be needed to hold off the resilient Cougars (Newsweek).
On the flip side, Houston’s standout, guard LJ Cryer, leads the team with his scoring and shooting prowess, boasting 15 points per game and shooting at nearly 42% from three-point range. His performance against Texas Tech is worth following as he aims to not only avenge the previous loss but also help propel the Cougars to another Big 12 title (Article 4).
Besides Cryer, the Cougars are also riding on the shoulders of senior forward J'Wan Roberts, who plays a significant role, contributing both on the scoreboard and defensive end. Expectations are high as this matchup is viewed as one of the key crosstown rivalries.
What makes this game even more special is the oppositional dynamics between the two teams. The history between Texas Tech and Houston has produced thrilling encounters, particularly with this being Houston’s first visit to Lubbock as part of the Big 12; the last matchup occurred over 20 years ago back on January 1, 2003 (Article 5). The Cougars hold the historical advantage with the all-time series leading 31-28.
The game kicks off at 9:00 PM ET and will be broadcast live on ESPN for all fans unable to make the trip to Lubbock—though those present will certainly appreciate witnessing it firsthand. Desiring to catch more than just the emotional highlights, the audience will likely have their eyes set on the thrilling back-and-forth action, reminiscent of past encounters which have displayed the grit and determination of both teams.
Looking at the odds, Houston enters the game as slight favorites at -1.5, but Texas Tech is not to be underestimated as they strive to secure home-court advantage, hoping to capitalize on their strong shooting, marked by their 38.4% three-point shooting average this season. The Red Raiders will certainly benefit from the deafening support of their home crowd which bolsters their confidence and performance (Article 6).
With both teams showcasing exceptional skill and depth, the outcome of this game could very well shape the direction of the Big 12 standings leading to the postseason. Fans and players alike are prepared for what promises to be not just another game, but rather, another chapter of this storied rivalry. Texas Tech will no doubt look to make this game matter, as the whispers of another potential upset and its significance linger over the packed arena.