Freshman earns player of the week honors

This was a good week, despite a heart breaking loss in the Phog. I don’t think many Texas Tech fans counted on that win, but it still hurt to battle and fall just short. West Virginia at home was a do-or-die game for this program, and the guys delivered a win that lifted the entire fanbase.

Jahmi’us Ramsey in particular needed to make a statement. After a hot start to the season, Ramsey had either been actively hurting the team in games or failing to make a meaningful impact. Even against TCU, most of his stats came late in the game when a rally was improbable.

With West Virginia’s superb defense in Lubbock, a breakthrough did not seem likely, but breakthrough he did. Along with Terrence Shannon Jr and Davide Moretti, Ramsey broke the 20-point mark. His 62% from beyond the arc was especially important, as the Red Raiders desperately need a sharp-shooter to be consistent.

After helping earn the critical win, Ramsey was equally impressive against the Kansas Jayhawks. Again shooting 62% from three, Ramsey was able to total 26 points. His mistake at the end of the game aside, Ramsey played confident and looked like the lottery pick he had the potential to be.

Three turnovers in each game is something Beard will like cleaned up, but the first time since before his injury he looked unstoppable on the drive and his jump shot was magnificent.

This team is better with Ramsey playing like this. Not just a little better either, this team goes from being a frustrating bubble team to a Sweet Sixteen team based on his play. He takes pressure off Moretti, opens lane for Shannon to drive, and helps pick up the slack from Kyler Edwards’ slow season.

The next stretch of the season has to be perfect. None of the teams on the schedule should beat Tech until a date with Bears in Waco, and Ramsey will be essential in making that reality.

Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports