BLOCKBUSTER BREAKING: Texas Tech Secures Its Future — Grant McCasland Inks $31.5M Deal Through 2031, Signals Elite Eight Just the Start

In a move that has electrified Red Raider Nation and sent a strong message across the college basketball landscape, Texas Tech has officially extended head coach Grant McCasland through the 2030–31 season. The university announced a lucrative new deal worth a staggering $31.5 million, reaffirming their trust in the man who led the program to an unforgettable Elite Eight run this past season — and who now has eyes set on even bigger goals.

The extension is not just a reward — it’s a resounding commitment. McCasland’s new contract, which will average over $4.5 million per year, reflects the skyrocketing trajectory of a Texas Tech program that’s rediscovered its identity under his leadership. It’s the latest signal that the Red Raiders are all-in on building a national powerhouse in Lubbock.

McCasland, who took over the Red Raiders prior to the 2023–24 season, made an immediate impact. After inheriting a team in flux, he quickly implemented his trademark culture of discipline, defense, and intensity — and the results spoke volumes. Not only did Tech defy expectations, but they also powered their way through the NCAA Tournament, making a statement with their Elite Eight appearance that few saw coming.

That breakthrough postseason performance energized the entire program and fanbase, bringing back memories of the 2019 national championship run. Yet McCasland is quick to stress — this is not about the past. This is about setting a new standard for Red Raider basketball.

University officials echoed that sentiment. Athletic director Kirby Hocutt emphasized that locking down McCasland for the long haul was one of the athletic department’s top priorities heading into the summer.

That belief is rooted not only in McCasland’s postseason success, but also in his recruiting strength and the foundation he’s laid in Lubbock. Under his guidance, the Red Raiders have landed several key portal additions and high school standouts, setting the stage for sustained success in the Big 12 and beyond.

McCasland’s connection to the state of Texas runs deep. Born in Irving and having previously coached at North Texas, his understanding of the Texas basketball scene is unmatched. That familiarity has already paid dividends on the recruiting trail and in forging a gritty, homegrown identity for his squad.

Before arriving in Lubbock, McCasland compiled a 135–65 record at North Texas, including an NIT Championship and a historic NCAA Tournament win. But many close to the program believe the best of his coaching career is still ahead — now, firmly anchored in Red Raider red.

The Big 12 has become one of the most competitive basketball conferences in the nation, and the Red Raiders’ commitment to McCasland positions them well to continue rising amidst the elite. Texas Tech fans, still buzzing from last season’s tournament run, now have even more reason to dream — and believe.

The contract extension is more than a business move — it’s a rallying cry for West Texas. In a region where loyalty and grit are woven into the fabric of daily life, McCasland has become a symbol of those same values. His passion on the sideline, his focus on player development, and his dedication to community engagement have endeared him to fans and players alike.

Texas Tech’s decision to secure Grant McCasland for the next six years is a powerful signal that the Elite Eight was merely a glimpse of what’s coming. With one of the largest contracts in the Big 12, McCasland now has the full backing of the university to chase championships, elevate recruiting, and turn Texas Tech into a perennial national force.