The first pour
On today’s episode of “Cup of Joe,” we’re diving into why Texas Tech is still dominating the college sports conversation. From growing confidence in Behren Morton’s shoulder to hoops nearly locking in the final roster spot, plus Big 12 Media Days and everything in between — it’s all on the table. So grab your coffee, lock in, and let’s talk about why the spotlight isn’t leaving Lubbock anytime soon.
Morning Motivational
“Don’t miss out on something to be great, just because it could also be difficult.”
UNKNOWN
Texas Tech talk of the town
Whether it’s on the recruiting trail in football, softball, or having a donor who’s single-handedly changing the NIL game across the college landscape, I can’t remember a time in my life when Texas Tech was mentioned in so many conversations. A new recruit hits the portal, a five-star signs, and Tech is tied to elite talent all over the country — including LaDamion Guyton who is the No. 1 player in the 2027 class out of Georgia (yes, Bulldog country).
Texas Tech is in the headlines — and for all the right reasons. People around the country are starting to take notice, and some probably aren’t loving all the questions they’re getting about “what Texas Tech is doing.”
The standard has been set. Tech has positioned itself for long-term staying power across nearly every major athletic program. The landscape is changing — and “The Brand” isn’t just about football anymore.
What’s happening in Lubbock right now could be the turning point that reshapes Texas Tech for years to come.
Morton enters season with clean bill of health
With all the spotlight on Texas Tech football this year, questions around Behren Morton’s shoulder loomed large for Red Raider fans. But at Big 12 Media Days, the senior quarterback put those concerns to rest.
Morton said he feels healthier than ever—both physically and specifically with his shoulder. While he didn’t reveal full details about the offseason procedure, his comments made it clear just how bad things were. He admitted he missed practices and took pain-killing injections before and during games just to stay on the field.
That’s a lot for anyone to endure—especially for a starting quarterback, the most scrutinized and demanding role in football. Yet Morton battled through it and continued to compete. His resilience speaks volumes about his toughness and leadership.
Now, heading into the 2025 season, Morton looks to be in peak form. He’s dropped weight, fully recovered, and overhauled his daily health routine. Everything points to a breakout year—not just for Morton, but for the entire Texas Tech offense.
QB1 is right where you want him. With a clean bill of health and a new system to operate in, Morton is poised to lead the Red Raiders to new heights.
Here’s one of his interviews from Big 12 Media Days, in case you missed it.
Red Raider hoops roster nearly set for 2025
Before leaving to coach Team USA at the U19 World Cup, Grant McCasland told the media he planned to add one or two more players to finalize Texas Tech’s 2025 basketball roster. Now, in mid-July, those spots are still open—and the questions haven’t gone away.
Is Texas Tech finished adding to the roster? Not quite. Eligibility concerns, logistical hurdles, and ongoing behind-the-scenes conversations could still influence how those final roster pieces come together.
Two names remain firmly linked to the Red Raiders: Jaylen Petty and Ben Henshall. While neither has committed, both continue to sit high on Tech’s radar as potential additions.
With the fall semester just weeks away, decisions are coming soon. Since arriving in Lubbock, McCasland has taken a calculated, methodical approach to building his roster—and so far, it’s paid off. There’s little reason to doubt his strategy now.
The only question left: Who’s the missing piece—Petty, Henshall, or someone else entirely?
It’s Not Always ‘Sonny’ in Fort Worth—Especially with takes like that
This one made the rounds in our RedRaiderSports group chat recently, and let’s just say, it gave us a good laugh. Sonny Dykes taking shots at the transfer portal felt less like strategy and more like salt.
It’s ironic to hear him question continuity through transfers, as if Texas Tech hasn’t built something strong by bringing in proven talent. The idea that a roster full of transfers can’t gel? That’s outdated thinking. When players buy in and commit to a program, continuity follows. That’s not theory, it’s what’s happening in Lubbock.
And let’s talk facts: TCU has added 63 transfers over the last four seasons. Texas Tech? 42. So if we’re talking about culture and roster turnover, maybe Sonny should look a little closer to home.
Throwing shade without receipts? Classic Sonny.
You can hear Sonny’s full take and decide for yourself if it sounds more like analysis or envy.
Thanks for pouring into the first Cup of Joe—it’s just getting started. The next brew is already in the works and will drop in just a few days—featuring more insight, updates, the newest hot brewed take from across the sports landscape, and everything else that may have caught my eye this past week. Until then, may your coffee stay strong and your Texas Tech pride brewing hotter than ever.