Texas Tech Basketball: How Red Raiders reached the 2019 Final Four

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ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 28: Jarrett Culver #23 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders reacts after a foul is called on the Michigan Wolverines during the 2019 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament West Regional at Honda Center on March 28, 2019 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

Key Players

While they have one of the best players in the country in Second-Team All-American Jarrett Culver, Texas Tech’s roster is by no means loaded.

They are led by Culver, who was named the Big 12 Player of the Year among other honors. Culver, a sophomore, averaged 19 points and seven rebounds per game, elevating his play from last season’s breakout season as an unheralded freshman.

Culver is the center of the offense and defense, but without the contributions of his teammates, Texas Tech would be nowhere close to this point.

Their Final Four season is due in part to the breakout season of sophomore guard Davide Moretti. The Italian averaged 12 points per game and played a big role in the perimeter shooting of Texas Tech.

Moreover, fifth-year transfers Tariq Owens and Matt Mooney played big roles of their own. Owens was the primary shot-blocker on defense and served as a nice supporting scorer in the low post. Mooney facilitated the Red Raider offense, leading the team in assists, and making timely shots at the point guard position.

Finally, players such as Norense Odiase, Kyler Edwards, and Brandone Francis played supporting roles but made big plays of their own in big moments throughout the season and tournament.

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