Michigan State vs Texas Tech: Key storylines in Final Four matchup
3. Big ramifications if Texas Tech becomes a superpower
Whether Michigan State wins the title or not, Coach Izzo’s legacy and record won’t be hurt one bit. In fact, an argument can be made that this was his best coaching job with the Spartans. Another title would cement his place alongside Coach K and Roy Williams on the Mount Rushmore of active college head coaches.
Chris Beard of Texas Tech doesn’t have as long a resume but has been impressive in his four years as a D-1 head coach at both Little Rock and the Red Raiders. He’s already made history in numerous ways at his current stop and could position Texas Tech as the premier program in the entire state of Texas.
The success has already greatly impacted the Red Raiders on the recruiting trail. They landed their highest rated prospect from high school in top-30 Jahmius Ramsey and continues to dominate on the JUCO front. A national title will only stamp Texas Tech in one of the biggest recruiting hotbeds in the country, to the chagrin of rival schools Texas, Baylor, Texas A&M, and others. A title appearance – and potentially a title altogether, has big ramifications both locally and in the Big 12 for those dealing with the Red Raiders going forward.
Next. Position battles for TTU vs. Michigan State. dark
Of course, there’s a possibility that Beard may move to an even greater program such as UCLA. Look for his name to be on the shortlist for major jobs going forward, unless Texas Tech decides to give him a lifetime contract like they gave Kentucky’s John Calipari this week.