Basketball

Donovan Atwell Returns for Fifth Year as Texas Tech Eyes Another Deep Run

The record‑breaking shooter will anchor a Red Raiders squad that aims to extend its recent NCAA Tournament streak.

Texas Tech University revealed that Donovan Atwell, the program’s all‑time three‑point leader, will extend his eligibility and suit up for a fifth season in 2026‑27. The move comes after a breakout year that saw the guard shatter both school and conference records from beyond the arc.

A Record‑Breaking Campaign

During the 2025‑26 campaign Atwell hit 130 three‑pointers in a single season, surpassing the previous Texas Tech mark, and added 81 makes in Big 12 play, establishing a new conference standard. His 41.5 percent shooting from deep and 3.82 triples per game placed him among the nation’s most efficient long‑range threats.

The guard’s four‑year collegiate career culminated with 341 made threes, 1,348 points, 331 rebounds, 92 steals and 82 assists in 128 appearances. He earned All‑Big 12 Honorable Mention and Newcomer honors, and was the only Texas Tech starter to appear in all 34 games last season.

Beyond college, Atwell tested the professional waters, averaging 10.6 points per game in the NBA Summer League with the Chicago Bulls. His experience at the highest level of competition adds another layer of readiness as the Red Raiders prepare for the upcoming schedule.

Head coach Grant McCasland praised the decision, noting that Atwell’s return bolsters a roster that already features five returning players and ten new additions, including transfers from UNLV, Hofstra, Wyoming, NC State and freshmen prospects.

With a streak of three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and a program‑record four wins over Top‑10 opponents, Texas Tech hopes Atwell’s leadership will propel the team to another deep run. The Red Raiders open the season with high expectations, aiming to translate their recent success into continued growth under McCasland’s system.

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