ESPN Report: Former Texas Tech Coach Chris Beard Donates $18.2M to New Stadium, Highlighting Unwavering Red Raiders Loyalt
Lubbock, TX — May 20, 2025 — In a stunning and heartfelt gesture that underscores his deep-rooted allegiance to Texas Tech University, former Red Raiders basketball coach Christopher Beard has donated a staggering $18.2 million to support the construction of a new basketball stadium. The donation, reported by ESPN early Monday morning, is directed to current head coach Grant McCasland and the university’s athletic department to elevate the future of the Texas Tech basketball program.
Beard, who coached the Red Raiders from 2016 to 2021 and led them to their first-ever national championship game appearance in 2019, remains a revered figure in Lubbock despite his controversial departure to the University of Texas. This unprecedented donation is being viewed by many as a powerful reconciliation with the Texas Tech community and a testament to his lasting affection for the program he once led to national prominence.
“This is more than just a donation,” Beard said in a statement released by the university. “It’s a commitment to the future of a program that shaped my coaching career and gave me some of the most meaningful years of my life. I’ve always considered myself a Red Raider at heart, and this is my way of giving back.”
The $18.2 million gift marks one of the largest private contributions ever made to Texas Tech Athletics. According to ESPN, the funds will go toward the planning and construction of a state-of-the-art basketball arena and training complex, slated to break ground in early 2026. The new facility, tentatively named the “Red Raider Arena,” will feature expanded seating, advanced athlete performance centers, and enhanced fan experiences aimed at solidifying Texas Tech’s status as a national basketball powerhouse.
Texas Tech Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt expressed his gratitude during a press conference at the United Supermarkets Arena, the current home of Red Raider basketball. “Coach Beard’s generosity is not just a financial contribution—it’s a statement of belief in what this program can accomplish. His support sends a powerful message to our alumni, fanbase, and current student-athletes.”
Coach Grant McCasland, who took over the program in 2023 and has already begun revitalizing the team with back-to-back NCAA tournament appearances, welcomed the donation with enthusiasm and humility.
“To have someone like Coach Beard step forward in this way is incredibly inspiring,” McCasland said. “This gift empowers us to dream bigger, train harder, and build a culture of excellence that rivals any program in the country.”
The news has generated a wave of reaction from across the college basketball world. While some fans remain divided over Beard’s past decisions, many have praised his willingness to put aside past differences and focus on the greater good of the university. Social media quickly buzzed with messages of support, using hashtags like #RedRaiderForLife and #BeardGivesBack.
Analysts also noted the strategic timing of the donation. As name, image, and likeness (NIL) dynamics continue to shape the recruiting landscape, top-tier facilities are becoming crucial in luring elite talent. The new stadium could prove to be a significant asset in this competitive environment.
Construction of the new arena is expected to begin in the spring semester of 2026, with a projected opening date in fall 2028. The university is also planning to launch a matching donation campaign inspired by Beard’s gift, encouraging alumni and corporate partners to invest in the future of Red Raider athletics.
As the sun sets on this landmark announcement, one thing is certain: Christopher Beard’s legacy at Texas Tech has taken a powerful new turn. With his $18.2 million commitment, the former coach has reasserted his place in Red Raiders history—not just as a winning coach, but as a dedicated supporter of
the program’s future.
