Texas Tech Fans Erupt as Krista Gerlich Retained Despite Dismal Big 12 Record: Calls Grow Louder for Change in Lady Raiders Program

In a decision that’s lighting a firestorm across Lubbock and beyond, Texas Tech has officially announced the retention of women’s basketball head coach Krista Gerlich for another season — despite a deeply concerning 24–66 record in Big 12 Conference play over the past four years. The move has left much of Raider Nation stunned, with passionate fans and alumni voicing their frustration over what they see as a program in stagnation.

Gerlich, a Texas Tech alumna and former Lady Raider standout, took over the program in 2020 with hopes of reviving its once-storied tradition. However, four seasons in, the numbers paint a grim picture. The Lady Raiders have consistently languished near the bottom of the Big 12 standings, compiling just 24 wins in 90 conference games — a win percentage that fans say is simply unacceptable for a Power Five program with Texas Tech’s resources and legacy.

Overall, Gerlich holds a 64–81 record during her tenure in Lubbock, and the team has yet to reach the NCAA Tournament under her leadership. While there have been some bright spots — including a few upsets over ranked opponents and moments of promise from younger players — the consistency and competitiveness required to elevate the program have been lacking.

Texas Tech athletic director Kirby Hocutt released a brief statement supporting Gerlich’s continued leadership, emphasizing the need for “stability, growth, and patience” as the program develops. He cited improvement in academic performance, culture-building, and recruiting as signs that Gerlich is laying the groundwork for long-term success.

Yet for many fans, that explanation rings hollow. Critics argue that loyalty and sentiment are taking precedence over performance. After all, Texas Tech hasn’t made a serious impact in women’s college basketball since the early 2000s, and the decision to stand by Gerlich feels to many like an unwillingness to pursue excellence.

The backlash was swift on social media, with hashtags like #FireGerlich and LadyRaidersDeserveBetter trending across X (formerly Twitter) in the hours following the announcement. Longtime season ticket holders expressed their dismay, while former players and analysts questioned the athletic department’s commitment to winning.

The criticism isn’t without basis. Programs like Iowa State, Baylor, and Oklahoma have continued to thrive in the same environment where Texas Tech has struggled. Moreover, the upcoming addition of schools like Arizona and Colorado to the Big 12 only raises the bar further.

One area Gerlich has received credit is in the recruiting realm. She’s managed to bring in some talented transfers and high school prospects — yet many either fail to develop or leave the program before making a significant impact. Several key players have transferred out over the past two seasons, raising concerns about internal culture and player retention.

On the court, the Lady Raiders have shown flashes of defensive toughness and transition offense, but offensive stagnation and late-game collapses have plagued the team repeatedly. Many believe Gerlich’s schemes are outdated or too conservative for today’s pace-heavy women’s game.

While Gerlich will be back for at least one more season, it’s clear that the leash is shortening. Fans and boosters alike are putting the program under the microscope, and patience is wearing thin. If next season doesn’t bring a clear turnaround — including at least a .500 conference record and serious NCAA Tournament contention — the calls for change may become impossible to ignore.

Several fans have already begun floating replacement names, from rising mid-major coaches to former Lady Raider greats with coaching experience. The consensus is simple: Texas Tech must decide whether it wants to be sentimental or serious about winning.

Texas Tech’s decision to retain Krista Gerlich might be rooted in loyalty and hope, but the numbers don’t lie — and fans know it. With the Big 12 becoming more competitive by the season, this program is at a crossroads. If results don’t follow soon, the outcry may evolve into an exodus of support.