The last pre-conference game will be a tough one, Texas Tech will face one of its toughest opponents yet in the Richmond Spiders. Richmond only has 3 losses on the year and is always a great basketball program, expect this to be a good game.

This game was originally scheduled for 8:00 PM but has now been moved to 4:00 PM to avoid interference with the Texas Bowl.

Richmond Key Players

Forward Terry Allen has been gaining national attention and will be among the finalists in A-10 player of the year voting when all is said and done. Allen is nearly averaging a double-double per game with 20.5 points and 8.6 rebounds. Although his numbers are great, he's not the only stud on the Spiders. Two others average double-digit points per game, T.J. Cline and ShawnDre' Jones average 15.5 and 14.2 points a game.

Last 5 Games

Richmond has only lost 3 games on the year. One was the season opener against a James Madison team that is now 10-3, the second was an 8-point lost to West Virginia and the third was a 20-point blowout to a good Florida squad. The Spiders have beat some good programs though, they've put away Wake Forest, Northern Iowa, and Old Dominion. The Red Raiders will be putting their 8-game win streak on the line against Richmond's 4-game win streak.

Prediction

Texas Tech 76 - Richmond 73

This will arguably be the Red Raiders toughest test since losing to Utah. Richmond is one of those mid-major schools who always has a solid basketball team. If Tech can slow down Terry Allen then they will have a very good shot at winning this game. A 9-game win streak heading into Big 12 game against Texas would be a great momentum boost.

BE CAREFUL

If you're heading to the USA to catch the game please use caution. It's been crazy out there and the players and Tubby Smith don't expect a packed house. The university has even put out a statement regarding its fans' safety. If you do want to go see this game in person though admission is free.