February has been good to the Red Raiders and last night it got even better. Winning on the road after such an emotional week of basketball offered more proof of this teams maturation. The win last night was not easy, just like every night in the Big 12, but Tech pulled away late to claim victory. The Toddfather (Gotcher) was unstoppable and more focused than any player I have seen in a long time. His senior leadership is going to be so valuable in the post season.
Tech needs at least one more win to solidify their NCAA tournament bid and have four games to do it. As good as this team is playing right now do not be surprised if we win three of our final four. The movement for Tubby Smith to be the Big 12 coach of the year is beginning to pick up steam. I do not know how anyone could argue against selecting Smith for this honor. Coach Smith has taken a team that was picked to finish last in the Big 12 and made them a NCAA tournament team. He did this in the toughest conference in the country with one of his starters out the last 5 weeks with a broken foot. We may be entering a golden age of Tech Basketball.
- Toddrick Gotcher was the leading scorer with 24 point and 3 boards. He was absolutely on fire in the second half and made 5 three pointers in the game.
- Tech went 21 for 30 (70%) from the free throw line.
- Temple tied his career high with 11 points. His size really does impact the game and the minutes he has been playing with Odiase out have been so valuable.
Next up the Red Raiders take on TCU at home on Tuesday at 6 pm.