Grant McCasland Inks Long-Term Deal with Texas Tech — $31.5 Million Extension Secures Red Raiders’ Future Through 2031

In a bold move that underscores Texas Tech’s commitment to building a powerhouse basketball program, head coach Grant McCasland has signed a massive contract extension that will keep him in Lubbock through the 2030-31 season. The new agreement, worth a staggering $31.5 million, solidifies McCasland’s position as the face of the Red Raiders for years to come and signals the university’s full faith in his leadership.

The deal, announced earlier this week, comes after a successful first year at the helm, where McCasland guided the Red Raiders to a 23-win season and a berth in the NCAA Tournament — a significant rebound from the program’s struggles just a year prior. With his calm demeanor, tactical acumen, and relentless focus on defense, McCasland has already begun reshaping the identity of Texas Tech basketball.

McCasland’s extension is not just a reward for early success — it’s a declaration of vision. Texas Tech Athletics Director Kirby Hocutt spoke glowingly about McCasland’s impact, calling him “a leader of character and purpose who has already reestablished a championship culture in our program.”

The extension is structured over seven years, increasing McCasland’s annual base salary to approximately $4.5 million by the final year. Performance-based bonuses, including incentives for NCAA Tournament wins, conference championships, and academic success, are built into the agreement.

McCasland’s arrival last season was met with cautious optimism. After successful stints at North Texas and Arkansas State, he brought with him a reputation for defensive tenacity and disciplined play. In his first year, the Red Raiders quickly bought in.

Texas Tech became one of the Big 12’s toughest teams to play against, thanks in part to McCasland’s emphasis on man-to-man defense and team-first basketball. The squad finished third in the conference in defensive efficiency and found a rhythm offensively late in the season, culminating in a memorable March Madness run that saw them advance to the Round of 32.

One of the strongest signs that McCasland is building something long-term is the buzz on the recruiting trail. Texas Tech has landed multiple high-potential players in recent months, including four-star prospects and a few coveted transfers who praised McCasland’s vision.

The university’s investment in McCasland aligns with its broader efforts to elevate the program’s national profile. A recent renovation of the basketball facilities and a renewed commitment to NIL support signal a full-court press to make Texas Tech a perennial contender.

The response from the Texas Tech community has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans flooded social media with praise for the extension, celebrating both McCasland’s performance and the administration’s willingness to back him.

Former Red Raider players, including some from the Chris Beard era, also showed support. Several alumni noted that McCasland’s leadership reminds them of the program’s gritty 2019 national runner-up team — disciplined, fearless, and always fighting.

With McCasland now locked in through 2031, expectations will only rise in Lubbock. The Big 12 remains one of the toughest conferences in college basketball, and competition is fierce. But McCasland welcomes the challenge.