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 worked with. The Red Raiders are scheduled to open the season Nov. 2 at United Supermarkets Arena.
McCasland cited the team’s athletic ability, competitiveness and commitment as reasons for his outlook. He said the program put extensive planning into assembling a roster capable of pursuing success through the season.
Eligibility remains an issue for three players on the active roster: Jamichael Stillwell, Darrion Williams and Donovan Atwell. Each player is involved in a separate effort seeking an additional season through temporary court orders.
Williams returned to Texas Tech after playing at NC State during the 2025-26 season. McCasland said Williams’ return developed gradually during the summer and that the player eventually asked whether the coach could preserve a scholarship for him. Williams previously spent two seasons with the Red Raiders and helped the team reach the Elite Eight during the 2024-25 season.
Williams is among 31 players covered by a temporary injunction that granted a fifth year of eligibility earlier this week. Atwell and Stillwell are pursuing similar relief in separate cases. McCasland also said roster decisions were affected by uncertainty surrounding the availability of All-American post player JT Toppin and by Christian Anderson’s decision to remain in the NBA Draft.
