Colorado vs Texas Tech: No. 16 Red Raiders dominate 78-44, Atwell drops 20

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By: Michael Brown

No. 16 Texas Tech absolutely dominated Colorado on Wednesday night, delivering a stunning 78-44 demolition at United Supermarkets Arena in Lubbock. Donovan Atwell led the offensive assault with 20 points, while JT Toppin controlled the glass with 18 rebounds. The 34-point victory margin marked the Buffaloes’ lowest-scoring game since 2022.

🔥 Quick Facts

  • Final Score: Texas Tech 78, Colorado 44 on February 11, 2026
  • Atwell’s Performance: 20 points on 6-for-10 shooting from beyond the arc
  • Toppin’s Dominance: 18 rebounds and 16 points in his 46th career double-double
  • Texas Tech Record: Improved to 18-6 overall, 8-3 in Big 12 Conference play

Atwell’s Three-Point Barrage Lifts Red Raiders

Donovan Atwell delivered an offensive masterclass against the Colorado Buffaloes. The sharp-shooting guard connected on six three-pointers while committing just two turnovers. Atwell now has 298 made three-pointers through his 118 career games at Texas Tech. He’s just seven 3-pointers away from matching Cory Carr’s single-season record of 94 set during the 1996-97 campaign.

The Red Raiders’ three-point barrage proved unstoppable throughout the evening. Texas Tech finished shooting 12-for-30 (40.0%) from beyond the arc. Christian Anderson added 14 points on 3-for-6 shooting from three, while Jaylen Petty contributed 12 points with two made threes.

Toppin’s Rebounding Clinic Signals Dominance

JT Toppin put on a rebounding clinic that showcased Texas Tech’s overwhelming physical advantage. The Big 12’s leading rebounder pulled down 18 rebounds, matching his career-high set last season against Saint Joseph’s. Toppin recorded 11 rebounds at halftime alone, foreshadowing the lopsided nature of the contest. His 46th career double-double established new benchmarks for dominance.

The Red Raiders’ rebounding advantage proved decisive, outrebounding Colorado 47-30 overall and securing 17 offensive rebounds. Texas Tech finished with a stunning 21-0 scoring margin on second-chance points. Toppin’s four offensive rebounds led the charge, helping the Red Raiders control the paint.

Comparing the Two Squad’s Performances

Statistic Texas Tech Colorado
Final Score 78 44
Field Goal Percentage 45.2% 29.1%
Three-Point Percentage 40.0% 24.0%
Total Rebounds 47 30
Turnovers Forced 10 steals 16 turnovers

“I was on edge. I wanted our guys and everyone in the building to feel it. People can assume you’re going to win games, but that’s not how this works. There are two teams, they have a scouting report and you play for 40 minutes with a scoreboard.”

Grant McCasland, Texas Tech Head Coach

Defensive Intensity Shatters Colorado’s Offensive Game Plan

Texas Tech’s defensive prowess completely dismantled the Colorado Buffaloes from start to finish. The Red Raiders registered nine blocked shots while forcing season-high 16 turnovers and recording 10 steals. Luke Bamgboye led the interior defense with four blocked shots and contributed seven points. Colorado shot a season-worst 29.1% (16 of 55) from the field, including just 24% (6 of 25) on three-pointers.

Colorado’s offensive struggles extended beyond poor shooting percentages. Isaiah Johnson led the Buffaloes with 13 points, while Ian Inman added 12. The team managed only 22 points each half, marking their lowest scoring output since scoring 43 points at Washington State on January 30, 2022. Texas Tech’s dominant defensive performance left little doubt about who controlled this Big 12 matchup.

Where Do the Red Raiders Head from Here?

Texas Tech’s complete domination over Colorado showcased why the No. 16 Red Raiders belong among the nation’s elite. The Red Raiders improved to 12-1 at home while completing a season sweep over the Buffaloes. Next up, Texas Tech faces a monumental challenge when traveling to face No. 1 Arizona on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. CST in Tucson. The Wildcats, ranked first in the nation despite a recent loss to Kansas, present the ultimate test of the Red Raiders’ tournament credentials.

Watch: Game Highlights Summary

YouTube video

Sources

  • ESPN – Complete game recap with official box score and statistical analysis
  • Texas Tech Athletics – Official Red Raiders account with full coverage and postgame materials
  • Big 12 Conference – Conference highlights and official game statistics

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