Great Alaska Shootout
Recap
The Red Raiders are coming off of a successful showing
where they advanced to the championship game at the Great Alaska Shootout over
the Thanksgiving weekend.
Game #1 - University of Alaska Anchorage
In the first game, Tech easily defeated Alaska Anchorage (74-47) with a
very impressive performance from the team’s freshmen. John Roberson had 22
points, shooting 6 of 7 from behind the arc. Mike Singletary posted 15 points
and 6 rebounds while D’Walyn Roberts contributed 9 points. Roberson continued
to gain confidence and find his rhythm, Singletary took advantage of his
starting role by making his first 5 shots, and Roberts displayed his remarkable
agility and athletic ability.
Game #2 - Gonzaga
Texas Tech upset the then 14th ranked Gonzaga 73-63 with Alan Voskuil
leading the way. He played an incredible game on both sides of the court,
finishing with a career-high 28 points. He made 5 of 7 threes and also had a
team high 5 steals. He put in 110% effort and will be a key player in the Red
Raider’s success this season. At the moment, he is the leading scorer averaging
14.5 points per game.
One interesting stat is that Martin Zeno had only 2 points. It is good to know
that other players will step up and have an impact on the game when another
critical player is having an off day.
Game #3 - Butler
Then ranked #22 Butler was just too hot from three point land for the
Red Raiders to handle, winning 81-71. The Bulldogs shot 16 of 24 three pointers
(66%), which negated the 60% Tech shot from the field and 85% from the Free
Throw line. Butler set the tournament record for total three pointers made (47)
in the Great Alaska Shootout. The previous record was 34 set by UC-Irvine set
in 1990. It was interesting for Texas Tech to play an opponent who also runs
the motion offense so efficiently. Martin Zeno scored a team-high 17 points,
while John Roberson added 11. This game was very beneficial for Tech and the
experience will make the team stronger as this season progresses.
All in all, Texas Tech left the 2007 Great Alaska Shootout with two victories,
including one over a ranked opponent, and a very valuable learning experience
and foundation which will be built on for the rest of the season.
Texas Christian University Horned Frogs
The Texas Tech Red Raiders (4-2) are looking
for their third consecutive win over the Horned Frogs of Texas Christian
University (4-0) on Wednesday at 7:00pm at the United Spirit Arena. The Frogs
are undefeated going into their first road game of the year in Lubbock.
2006-2007 Record – Overall (13-17), Conference (Mountain West: 4-12)
Postseason – None
Coach - Neil Dougherty (6th Season)
Last year, the Red Raiders defeated TCU on the road in Forth Worth, 70-60.
Guards Brent Hackett and Henry Salter are the Horned Frog’s leading scorers at
15.8 and 14.5 points per game so far this season. Top Returnee, forward Kevin Langford, is averaging 11.3 points and 6.8 rebounds per contest.
This is the 115th meeting between the two teams, with Texas Tech leading
the series 70-44. Of all the games in Lubbock, the Red Raiders lead 39-12. The
game will be broadcast on the Texas Tech Television Network at 7:00pm Central
Time.
2007-2008 Season
The Horned Frogs have amassed a perfect record of 4-0 going into
Wednesday’s game. They have recorded blowout victories over Angelo State, Rice,
Arkansas-Pine Bluff, and Grambling State. All games were at home in Fort
Worth. Texas Christian also defeated LCC Time Team, an international University
program from Lithuania, in their only exhibition game, 118-54.
Keys to the Game
1. Getting contributions from multiple players –
The Great Alaska Shootout showed everyone that Tech
has some true talent. This is not a one or two man show. Positive
contributions are being made by each position on offense and defense. Keep this
up.
2. Rebounding – Tech out-rebounded all three opponents in the Great Alaska
Shootout. Remain competitive on the boards.
3. Free Throw Shooting – Tech is shooting 70.5% (5th in the Big
12), which is an improvement. Free Throws are crucial and can make or break a
game (see Sam Houston State game ’07). TCU is averaging 59.7% from the line.