Texas Tech Basketball: 3 Keys to beat Virginia in national title game

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - APRIL 06: Jarrett Culver #23 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders reacts in the second half against the Michigan State Spartans during the 2019 NCAA Final Four semifinal at U.S. Bank Stadium on April 6, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

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MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – APRIL 06: Matt Mooney #13 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders reacts in the second half against the Michigan State Spartans during the 2019 NCAA Final Four semifinal at U.S. Bank Stadium on April 6, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

More Magnificence from Matt Mooney

While Jarrett Culver, the Red Raiders superstar sophomore, was in the midst of one of the worst games of his career against Michigan State, Matt Mooney stepped up big.

The fifth-year senior, a transfer from South Dakota, had the best game of his career in the biggest game of his career, dropping 22 points, and exploding in the second half when Culver was sidelined, and Tariq Owens was in the locker room.

The next man up mentality was not always present for the Red Raiders this season, but it made an appearance in their biggest game, as Mooney had a performance for the ages.

Now, against Virginia, where Culver will find it even more difficult to score, the Red Raiders will need one more big game from Mooney in his final collegiate game.

Mooney might not score 22 points, but any contribution above his normal contribution would be a huge lift. The Cavaliers make it hard for their opponents to get shots that they like, so Mooney will likely have to be lights-out from deep.

If he can replicate Saturday’s showing, I don’t see a scenario in which Texas Tech loses. Their defense is incredible, and Culver will find a way. Mooney is the ultimate X-factor for Monday.

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