Texas Tech Basketball: 2019-20 season preview for Red Raiders

Reserves

G — SO Kyler Edwards

Outside of Moretti, the only Red Raiders that returns with any meaningful in-game experience is Kyler Edwards. The 6-foot-4 guard is a reliable 3-point shooter and has the opportunity to provide a spark off the bench. In 17.8 minutes per game last year, Edwards averaged 5.5 points and 2.2 rebounds on 44.9 percent shooting from 3.

F — FR Tyreek Smith

If Chris Beard opts to shy away from a small-ball lineup, the player who’ll see the biggest boost is freshman Tyreek Smith. The 6-foot-7 forward that ranks just outside the Top 100, per Rivals.com, is a big body that figures to work in the low post often for the Red Raiders. Smith brings a defensive tenacity that fits Beard’s system and should see decent minutes in his first season with Texas Tech. In his senior year at Trinity Christian (Texas) High School., the 215-pound forward averaged 17.9 points, 12.3 rebounds and 3.0 blocks per game.

G — RF Kevin McCullar

After redshirting last season, Kevin McCullar could be another guard to make an impact off the bench for Texas Tech. The 6-foot-6 point guard boasts the ability to both shoot the 3-ball and force his way to the rim. McCullar enrolled early, skipping his senior year of high school, which allowed him to gain valuable experience that could give him an advantage over other players on the roster. McCullar averaged 16.8 points and 6.6 rebounds per game as a junior at Wagner (Texas) High School.

F — RF Andrei Savrasov

There’s a lot that remains unknown about Andrei Savrasov, the 6-foot-7 forward from Russia, but he figures to be a stretch four in Beard’s offense. Savrasov has semi-pro experience under his belt and could see his role expand as the season progresses. There’s a good chance Savrasov battles Smith for minutes in the front court, providing relief to the pair of graduate transfers when needed.

C — FR Russel Tchewa

Though he’s more of a project player, at least initially, Russel Tchewa is slated as a backup to Holyfield. His 7-foot frame is enough to make an impact, especially on the defensive end, but he’s still very raw. Tchewa will likely not see any meaningful minutes this season — or at least early on — as he works toward improving his overall game.