Texas Tech Basketball Closes Season With Loss

It wasn't a pretty sight to behold on Wednesday night in Kansas City. Texas Tech came out strong, hitting Oklahoma State in the mouth, but after a couple of defensive switches, Texas Tech folded to Oklahoma State's talent. The first game of the Big 12 Tournament ended with Oklahoma State winning 80-62.

It's tough to see the Red Raiders fall this hard, especially after having so much hope and momentum some six weeks ago. After a string of losses and a plummet back down to earth, the Red Raiders managed to get a great win over the Longhorns, but little else was spectacular.

But all hope shouldn't be lost, not in the least. Texas Tech truly is heading in the right direction, even if the past few weeks don't particularly bolster that claim. Tubby Smith's done this whole coaching thing a very, very long time and is a perfect candidate to resurrect a long-befuddled and lifeless program.

There are some big losses, as Jaye Crockett is packing his bags, as is Kader Tapsoba, Jamal Williams Jr. and Dejan Kravic, but a nice foundation of young talent should be laid down over the offseason and you'll see one hell of a team eager and ready to surprise come next fall.

It was a roller coaster year with these Red Raiders, but I'm still pretty damn happy with the ride.

Guns Up.