McCasland Inks Six-Year Extension with Texas Tech After Historic Start, Elite Eight Run
Texas Tech University has officially announced a six-year contract extension for head men’s basketball coach Grant McCasland, solidifying his role through the 2030–31 season. The decision follows a historic 2024–25 season that saw the Red Raiders reach the NCAA Elite Eight and spend a program-record six consecutive weeks in the AP Top 10 rankings.
Under the new terms, McCasland will earn $5 million annually starting next season, with a $100,000 increase each year. By the final year of the deal, his salary will reach $5.5 million. The total value of the contract stands at $31.5 million, placing him among the highest-paid coaches in college basketball.
Texas Tech Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt praised McCasland’s leadership and early success. “Coach McCasland immediately built upon our men’s basketball program’s established success and continues working to raise and deliver on high expectations,” Hocutt said. “We look forward to an exciting future for Texas Tech basketball under his leadership.”
In just two seasons at the helm, McCasland has compiled an impressive 51–20 overall record, including 26–12 in Big 12 Conference play. The 2024–25 campaign was particularly notable, with the team finishing 28–9 overall and 15–5 in the Big 12—good for second place in the conference. The Red Raiders made a strong run in the NCAA Tournament, defeating Arkansas in the Sweet 16 before falling to eventual national champion Florida in the Elite Eight.
McCasland’s coaching success extends beyond Texas Tech. Prior to joining the Red Raiders, he led North Texas to a College Basketball Invitational (CBI) title in 2018 and captured the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) championship in 2023. His overall Division I coaching record stands at an impressive 206–97.
In addition to on-court accomplishments, McCasland has reinvigorated fan engagement in Lubbock. Over the past two seasons, the Red Raiders have recorded nine sellouts at United Supermarkets Arena and averaged over 3,200 student attendees per Big 12 home game, making for one of the most electric atmospheres in college basketball.
McCasland’s connection to Texas Tech runs deep. He began his coaching career in Lubbock in 1999, serving as the Director of Basketball Operations. After building a solid reputation through successful stops at Midland College, Midwestern State, Arkansas State, and North Texas, he returned to Texas Tech in 2023 to take over the head coaching role.
The extension signals the university’s strong belief in McCasland’s long-term vision for the program. With a foundation already established and a passionate fan base behind him, Texas Tech is aiming to continue climbing in the national ranks. The Red Raiders have been praised not only for their toughness on the court but also for their disciplined and team-oriented approach—hallmarks of McCasland’s coaching philosophy.
As the program looks ahead to the 2025–26 season, expectations will be higher than ever. With several key players expected to return and a promising recruiting class coming in, the Red Raiders are poised to remain a force in the Big 12 and beyond.
In summary, Grant McCasland’s six-year extension represents a major vote of confidence from Texas Tech’s administration. After delivering immediate success, including a deep NCAA Tournament run and a nationally ranked team, McCasland is now being rewarded with the resources and stability to build a long-lasting legacy. For Texas Tech fans, the future looks brighter than ever.
