Why Texas Tech Is Most Interesting Duke Non-Conference Opponent

The Duke Blue Devils will face several elite teams in the non-conference portion of their schedule this season. Head coach Jon Scheyer has made a grueling non-con slate a regularity for his teams since he took over in Durham.

Duke will take on at least four teams with a high chance of being ranked inside the top 10 of the preseason AP Poll. Originally, Texas Tech wasn’t one of those candidates, but that might be changing.

Mar 27, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer reacts in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the East Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

After Duke replaced its neutral-site contest with Michigan with the Red Raiders, they looked like one of the weaker high-major non-conference opponents the Blue Devils would take on. However, through fifth-year signings, that might not be the case anymore.

Mar 20, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders head coach Grant McCasland in the second half against the Akron Zips during a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Texas Tech Loading Up With Fifth-Year Signings

Texas Tech was an interesting roster to look at once it was announced Duke would face it at Madison Square Garden on Dec. 21. After losing key pieces like LeJuan Watts and Christian Anderson, as well as JT Toppin’s health remaining uncertain due to a torn ACL he suffered in February, a lot was in question.

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However, Grant McCasland has rebuilt through fifth-year signings, and there’s a chance that Texas Tech could be one of the best offensive teams in the sport if it holds up.

Mar 17, 2026; Dayton, OH, USA; NC State Wolfpack forward Darrion Williams (1) dribbles the ball defended by Texas Longhorns forward Dailyn Swain (3) in the first half during a first four game of the men’s 2026 NCAA…

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Publish date : 2026-08-19 13:55:00

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