Texas Tech Clashes with Texas A&M in the Big 12 Tournament

The Big 12 tournament kicks off for Texas A&M and Texas Tech on Wednesday, March 11th, 2009. The game will be televised on the Big 12 Network with coverage beginning at 8:30. The six seed, Texas A&M will host sub- .500 Texas Tech, the 11 seed. Although, Texas A&M seems to have solidified a spot to the big dance with a 23-8 record and wins over Texas, Baylor and Arizona, a win over the under matched Texas Tech will only improve their seed come March Madness.

Texas A&M also hold a 29 RPI rating and receive votes in both the AP poll and the coaches poll. On the other hand, Texas Tech needs to not only win this first round game, but win the Big 12 championships to secure a trip to the NCAA tournament. With a 13-18 record, Texas Tech is not considered "on the bubble" or close to being considered on selection Sunday.

Both of these teams rely on consistency to get the job done. Both teams have four players averaging ten points or more per contest, thus emulating balance. While being balanced is often an advantage, it can hinder a team come late in the game. If there are four guys who rely one another who is the guy who wants the last ball to take the last? This has been a major problem for the Red Raiders as they have lost eight games by 10 points or less.

These teams met twice before, Texas Tech losing both games by a total of 15 points. However, they did play better the second time losing by only 6 points while netting 73 points.

Sources: Seth, C. "Preview and Open Game Day Thread: Texas A&M vs. Texas Tech," http://www.doubletnation.com/2009/2/21/766906/preview-and-open-game-day