In a thrilling college basketball game that had fans on the edge of their seats, Texas Tech pulled off a stunning upset against No. 6 Houston, winning 82-81 in overtime on Saturday at the Fertitta Center in Houston. Despite a rocky start that saw the early ejections of star player JT Toppin and head coach Grant McCasland, Texas Tech showed incredible resilience and teamwork under pressure. The victory not only marked Texas Tech’s sixth win in a row but also ended Houston’s impressive 33-game home winning streak.
The Upset: Texas Tech Triumphs in Overtime
As the game unfolded, it became clear that the tension in the arena was palpable. Houston, known for its strong home advantage, was riding high on a 13-game winning streak going into this matchup. However, Texas Tech was determined to shake things up. The game’s turning point came when Texas Tech’s Darrion Williams hit a crucial three-pointer late in the fourth quarter, pushing the game into overtime. When the final whistle blew, it was a testament to Texas Tech’s fighting spirit and the determination of its players.
Controversial Ejections Play a Major Role
However, the path to victory was not without controversy. Just under four minutes into the game, JT Toppin was ejected for what was called a Flagrant Foul 2 after an unintentional collision with a Houston player. Coach Grant McCasland expressed his frustration and was also ejected for arguing against the call. Texas Tech athletic director Kirby Hocutt did not hold back either, labeling the ejection as “egregious” during a conversation with Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark. Despite these setbacks, the Red Raiders rallied together, showcasing a remarkable team effort.
Key Players Shine in the Spotlight
In the face of adversity, Chance McMillian emerged as the star player for Texas Tech, leading the team with an impressive 23 points, including crucial free throws in overtime. His performance was instrumental in helping the team not only recover from a six-point deficit in the final minutes but also to seize victory in an exhilarating finish. Also contributing significantly were Elijah Hawkins, who added 17 points along with his four assists and six rebounds, and Darrion Williams, whose timely shooting kept the momentum on Texas Tech’s side.
The Numbers Behind the Game
| Team | Points | Top Scorer |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Tech | 82 | Chance McMillian (23) |
| Houston | 81 | LJ Cryer (22) |
What’s Next for Texas Tech?
With this victory, Texas Tech solidifies its position in the AP Top 25 rankings and gives the team a strong boost of confidence as they move deeper into the season. They have set a remarkable record of 5-0 on the road, and their winning streak in the Big 12 is a sure sign that they are contenders this year. Basketball fans can look forward to seeing how Texas Tech will build on this stunning performance as they prepare for their next matchups.
Critical Reactions from Coach and Players
Both Coach McCasland and the players highlighted the importance of their teamwork and resilience. The ejections were certainly an unexpected hurdle, but they brought the team closer together as they fought for each other and demonstrated their skills on the court. The crowd erupted in cheers as Texas Tech sealed the game, illustrating the thrilling, heart-pounding excitement that college basketball can bring to its fans and players alike.