Texas Tech coverage just leveled up — can it get any better? (COJ)
The first pour
On today’s inaugural episode of COJ, I dive into RedRaiderSports’ move to On3 and what to expect moving forward. Is NiJaree up for another award? Texas Tech baseball loses a key player but adds a new pitching coach. Big 12 Football Media Days are on the horizon. Plus, how Coach McCasland and Christian Anderson are performing in the U19 World Cup — and everything else that’s caught my eye. So sit down, grab a seat, pour that cup of Joe… and who knows, you might need a second cup to keep up. Let’s dive in.
Morning Motivational
“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you figure out why.”
Mark twain
RedRaiderSports X On3
Now that the move from Rivals to On3 is officially in the books, what can you expect from the new and improved RedRaiderSports? More content. More access. More ways to stay plugged in to everything going on with Texas Tech. On3 brings a whole new level of info — it’s night and day compared to before. It changes how we cover recruiting, and how you follow it. You’ll even be able to check out what fans from other teams are saying on their forums. Bottom line? This is going to be fun — and we’re just getting started.
Texas Tech upgraded the staff, downgraded the roster
Texas Tech baseball just took another hit to its roster — sophomore TJ Pompey has officially entered the transfer portal. Once seen as a cornerstone of the program, Pompey is now looking for a new home after spending two seasons in Lubbock.
So… what’s really going on with this Tech baseball team?
Not that long ago, this was one of the most exciting programs on campus. But lately? That spark feels like it’s gone. The results haven’t been there, and to be honest, it’s starting to look like Coach Tadlock may have lost a bit of his edge.
The good news? There’s still time to figure it out before the team hits the diamond again — and help may already be on the way. Tech recently brought in longtime MLB coach Steve Foster to lead the pitching staff. Foster brings a wealth of experience, having served as the Colorado Rockies’ pitching coach and previously working with the Royals. If anyone can get the most out of this underperforming group, it’s him.
Still, for now, there are just as many questions as answers.
Texas Tech’s ace eyes more honors
Tech’s NiJaree Canady just keeps stacking accolades.
Already named the Honda Sport Award winner for softball, she’s now a finalist for the Honda Cup — the big one. This isn’t just about being the best in softball. This is about being the best female athlete in all of college sports. Period.
And let’s be real — it’s hard to argue against her. Canady led the nation in ERA and strikeouts and was flat-out dominant every time she stepped into the circle. Power, poise, pressure? She handled it all.
The Honda Cup also factors in leadership, academics, and community impact — and yeah, she’s got that part covered too.
Spoiler alert: she didn’t take home the Honda Cup this time… but if you’ve watched her pitch, you know this won’t be the last time she’s in the spotlight.
So Far, So Good? McCasland and Anderson at the U19 World Cup
McCasland is repping Team USA on the sidelines, while Christian Anderson Jr. is holding it down as a guard for Germany.
Both squads are off to strong starts with 2–0 records in pool play. Team USA picked up solid wins over Australia and France, with McCasland playing a key role on the bench. Germany’s looked sharp too, taking care of business against Slovenia and China.
Anderson’s been making an impact—he’s averaging 10.5 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.0 rebounds through two games. He was especially productive in the win over China, finishing with 14 points, 5 boards, and 4 assists.
Next up, Team USA faces Guinea, while Germany takes on Egypt as both teams look to stay perfect in group play.
For continued coverage and full tournament updates from the U19 World Cup, visit the official FIBA website. https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/fiba-u19-basketball-world-cup-2025
One of the finest slides the game has seen?
I’ve seen some incredible slides in baseball over the years—going all the way back to when I was a kid watching games on those big-screen TVs with the massive backs, like a built-in closet. But I came across a slide recently that made me stop and wonder if I’ve ever seen anything quite like it.
It was a full-on slide with an abrupt stop that threw the defender off balance—just enough for the runner to casually touch the base. One of the best slides I’ve ever seen.
Now, does it rank as the best ever? I’ll let you decide. I pulled together some of the most memorable recent slides I could find—let’s see how this one stacks up against the competition.
Grab your second cup of Joe and join me again on Thursday—we’ll keep the Texas Tech talk rolling, hit whatever else is buzzing, and I’ll throw in my hot take of the week. Might ruffle some feathers, but hey, that’s half the fun. Appreciate you reading, and as always, Wreck ’Em.
