UPDATE: The Texas Tech Lady Raiders have made history by securing their first Top 25 ranking in 13 years, following a nail-biting victory over then-No. 15 Baylor with a score of 61-60 on December 24, 2023. This monumental achievement, led by head coach Krista Gerlich, marks a significant milestone for the program, which has been in a rebuilding phase since her arrival in 2020.
With an impressive record of 14-0, Texas Tech is one of only a dozen unbeaten teams in the country. Gerlich expressed her pride, stating, “It’s been such a long process to get to this point, but well worth it.” The victory over Baylor was particularly special, as it was their first win against the Bears since 2011 and their first win over a ranked team this season.
“This is a huge goal for our program,” Gerlich emphasized. “We have to celebrate things we haven’t done before. This is one of them.” The Lady Raiders’ ranking is a testament to their hard work and determination as they continue to rebuild the program.
As the team prepares for a holiday break, they will return to action against Central Florida on December 31. Gerlich advised her players to remain focused: “They can’t be satisfied and rest. We got here by keeping our nose to the grind and keeping our head down and working.”
The road ahead is challenging, with the Lady Raiders facing tough competition in the Big 12. Gerlich noted that teams like TCU, Arizona State, and Iowa State have also started strong, making every game crucial. “It’s a gauntlet,” she stated.
In the latest NET ratings, Texas Tech sits at 22nd, while UConn holds the top spot. The NET ratings play a vital role in determining NCAA Tournament selections and seeding. Historically, four of the five national champions since the NET’s introduction in 2021 were ranked No. 1 on Selection Sunday.
As the season unfolds, fans and supporters are eager to see how the Lady Raiders capitalize on this momentum. With a strong foundation and a commitment to excellence, Texas Tech is poised for an exciting journey ahead.
For ongoing updates and alerts on the AP Top 25, sign up for notifications at AP News.
