Instant Takeaways from Texas Tech’s Exhibition Road Loss vs. Kentucky

The Red Raiders couldn’t keep up with the Wildcats in their first and only exhibition of the season, losing 76-65 on the road. There’s a lot to unpack from Texas Tech’s loss, both positive and negative.

More Physicality on Defense

One thing from this game seemed clear. Texas Tech will need Jamichael Stillwell and JT Toppin back in the lineup in order to be where they want this season. The lack of height on this team looks like it could be an issue defensively moving forward, especially when facing physical bigs, as they saw in Malachi Moreno against Kentucky.

Oct 23, 2026; Lexington, KY, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders forward Bassala Bagayoko (33) shoots the ball during the first half against the Kentucky Wildcats at Rupp Arena Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Big 12 has no shortage of physical big men, so it could be vital for Tech to get Toppin and Stillwell back before conference play begins. As for the rebounding battle against taller talent, Texas Tech actually was able to be successful. They won the rebounding battle 33-29,

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Nothing to Overreact About

Kentucky played well, and there’s nothing to be worried about if you’re a Red Raider fan. This team will have some growing pains to start the season, but there were a lot of positives in the exhibition against the Wildcats.

Oct 23, 2026; Lexington, KY, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders guard Cruz Davis (3) handles the ball during the first half against the Kentucky Wildcats at Rupp Arena Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

We knew this would be a team that needs time to gel together, and luckily it’s still October. The Red Raiders didn’t shoot the ball the best tonight, but they certainly have the right players in place to make things happen along the road. You won’t have many nights where Donovan Atwell shoots 3-for-11 from three, and Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn has proven he can be more efficient than…

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Publish date : 2026-10-24 13:35:00

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