Texas Tech men’s basketball began its first official practice for the 2026-27 season Tuesday, as coach Grant McCasland addressed a roster that includes three players involved in separate eligibility cases. Jamichael Stillwell, Darrion Williams and Donovan Atwell remain listed on the active roster after seeking temporary injunctions.
McCasland said the team was built with athleticism, competitiveness and experience in mind. He also cited the group’s willingness to win and level of investment in one another as reasons for his optimism about the season.
Williams is returning to Texas Tech after spending the 2025-26 season at NC State. He previously played two seasons for the Red Raiders and helped the team reach the Elite Eight during the 2024-25 season. McCasland described Williams’ return as an unusual process and said Williams eventually asked whether the coach would hold a scholarship for him.
Williams is among 31 players included in a case that resulted in a temporary injunction granting a fifth year of eligibility. Atwell and Stillwell are involved in separate cases seeking an additional season. McCasland said the program will continue with whichever players are eligible to play and believes the roster has enough capable players to handle changes.
Atwell is also returning after shooting 45.8% from 3-point range on a career-high 8.4 attempts per game last season. He received All-Big 12 honorable mention recognition. Texas Tech is scheduled to open the season Nov. 2 at United Supermarkets Arena.
