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Texas Tech Looks to Rebound at Home Against Streaking Arizona
A crucial Big 12 showdown is set for Saturday as Texas Tech aims to reclaim its home-court dominance against an Arizona squad that has surged to the top of the conference standings. While the Red Raiders have stumbled at home in recent weeks, the Wildcats enter the matchup on a seven-game winning streak, looking to extend their momentum.
Arizona on Fire, Tied for Big 12 Lead
The Wildcats (11-5, 5-0 Big 12) have been one of the hottest teams in the conference, tying for the Big 12 lead with Iowa State and Houston. Their seven-game winning streak includes impressive victories over ranked opponents Cincinnati, West Virginia, and Baylor.
Arizona’s turnaround began after a Dec. 14 loss, fueled by increased offensive balance and the resurgence of star Caleb Love.
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Key Players for Arizona
- Caleb Love (15.3 PPG) – The 2024 Pac-12 Player of the Year had a slow shooting start but has steadily improved, leading the Wildcats in scoring.
- Henri Veesaar (12.4 PPG, 6.6 RPG in Big 12 play) – Has stepped up in Motiejus Krivas’ absence after Krivas suffered a season-ending foot injury in December.
- Team Chemistry – Arizona has found better balance on both ends, leading to a dominant start in conference play.
Head coach Tommy Lloyd emphasized the importance of a strong start in conference play, and his team has delivered.
“I knew we had a good team,” Lloyd said. “We wanted to get off to a good start in conference—that was important for us—and I think we’ve done that.”
Texas Tech Aiming to Reclaim Home-Court Advantage
The Red Raiders (12-4, 3-2 Big 12) have been strong on the road, winning their first three Big 12 road games for the first time since 1997. However, they have struggled at home, dropping back-to-back games in Lubbock to UCF and then-No. 3 Iowa State by a combined five points.
Despite the setbacks, Texas Tech remains one of the most efficient offensive teams in the conference.
Red Raiders’ Strengths
- Big 12’s Best Shooting Team – Leads the conference in field-goal percentage (50.5%) and ranks second in three-point shooting (39.7%).
- High-Scoring Offense – 83.9 points per game, ranking third in the Big 12 behind Iowa State (85.4 PPG) and Arizona (84.2 PPG).
- Free Throw Accuracy – Tied for first in the conference (77.2%), showing their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Key Players for Texas Tech
- JT Toppin (16.3 PPG, 8.7 RPG) – The Red Raiders’ leading scorer and rebounder, providing consistent inside presence.
- Chance McMillian (14.9 PPG, 48.1% 3PT) – One of the best three-point shooters in the conference.
- Elijah Hawkins (6.1 APG) – Big 12’s assist leader, creating opportunities for Tech’s efficient scorers.
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Despite their offensive firepower, defensive lapses have been costly for the Red Raiders. UCF and Iowa State each scored at least 85 points in their wins at Texas Tech, exposing weaknesses in defensive intensity.
Forward Darrion Williams emphasized the need for a more aggressive approach on the defensive end.
“We’re trying to improve on the little things that we know we can improve on,” Williams said. “Our defense is getting better game by game—the intensity and rebounding. We’re going to have to hit first in this game … don’t let them hit us to put us in a bad spot. We have to be aggressive. There has to be a sense of urgency.”
High-Stakes Battle in Lubbock
This matchup presents a fascinating contrast:
- Arizona is on a tear, dominating conference play behind Love and Veesaar.
- Texas Tech boasts an elite offense but needs a stronger defensive effort to avoid a third straight home loss.
Can the Red Raiders protect their home floor and slow down the Wildcats’ winning streak, or will Arizona continue its dominance and stay atop the Big 12 standings? Saturday’s showdown in Lubbock will provide the answer.
