Arizona State upsets No. 10 Texas Tech in Big 12 showdown

In a stunning display of grit and determination, Arizona State delivered a resounding defeat to the No. 10 Texas Tech Red Raiders, 72-67, in a Big 12 showdown. The Sun Devils put on a clinic, frustrating the top-ranked Raiders with a relentless full-court press that forced critical turnovers and sealed the upset.

The Sun Devils' Dominant Second Half

Despite trailing the Red Raiders for much of the game, the Sun Devils turned the tide in the second half, building a commanding 57-47 lead. Their aggressive play forced multiple turnovers and kept the Red Raiders off-balance, ultimately securing the victory. Arizona State’s defense was the key factor, as they frustrate Texas Tech with a dynamic full-court press. The Red Raiders, who had been on a strong run, were unable to maintain their pace, and the Sun Devils capitalized on their mistakes.

Red Raiders' Struggles and Arizona State's Triumph

The game was a tale of two halves, with Texas Tech managing to stay ahead in the first quarter 7-0, showcasing their offensive prowess in the initial stages. However, Arizona State responded with a dominant second half, scoring 35 points to Texas Tech's 25, which culminated in a convincing 72-67 win. Joey McGuire’s Red Raiders, who had an undefeated record at home, faced a tough challenge from Arizona State, and the Sun Devils’ relentless defense proved to be the deciding factor.

“The Red Raiders had a solid first half, but the Sun Devils’ defense was impeccable in the second. It was a game of two halves, and Arizona State’s resilience and strategic shifts made all the difference in this upset,”

Historical Context and Future Implications

The history between Arizona State and Texas Tech is marked by narrow margins and intense competition. In fact, the teams are tied 3-3 in their all-time series, with each team having won important matches on their home turf. Texas Tech holds a 2-0 record in Lubbock, having won 52-45 in 2017 and 30-22 in 2024. This year’s outcome, however, is a significant shift in the rivalry, as Arizona State’s victory adds a new layer of intrigue to their rivalry.

While the loss is a setback for Texas Tech, it is a testament to Arizona State's rising prowess. Let's not forget, the Sun Devils’ resilience and strategic play have positioned them as a formidable force in the Big 12.

Texas Tech, ranking 10 Texas Tech, will need to regroup and refocus as they face a homestand that includes Kansas State and Cincinnati. The Red Raiders must address their defensive lapses and re-establish their offensive rhythm to reclaim their top position in the conference.

The Red Raiders are currently set to host Kansas State and Cincinnati, both games that will be crucial for their season.

As the season progresses, the 2026 Texas Tech vs. Arizona State showdown will be remembered as a pivotal moment in the Big 12 conference, highlighting the Sun Devils' resilience and the Red Raiders' need to regroup.

One thing is clear: the Texas Tech vs. Arizona State rivalry is far from over, and the Sun Devils have cemented their place as a team to watch in the coming weeks.