Texas Tech men’s basketball held its first official practice for the 2026-27 season Tuesday with Jamichael Stillwell, Darrion Williams and Donovan Atwell listed on the active roster while pursuing temporary injunctions in separate eligibility cases.
Williams is back with the Red Raiders after playing at NC State during the 2025-26 season. He previously spent two years at Texas Tech and contributed to the team’s Elite Eight run in 2024-25. Coach Grant McCasland called the circumstances of Williams’ return unusual, saying Williams ultimately asked if the coach would reserve a scholarship for him.
Williams is one of 31 players in a case that led to an injunction allowing a fifth year of eligibility. Atwell and Stillwell are seeking another season through separate cases. McCasland said the program will move forward with the players who are cleared and has enough ability to adjust if the roster changes.
McCasland said the roster was assembled around athleticism, competitiveness and experience, along with a shared commitment to winning and to one another. Atwell made 45.8% of his 3-point attempts on 8.4 tries per game last season and earned honorable mention on the All-Big 12 team. Texas Tech will begin its season Nov. 2 at United Supermarkets Arena.
