Five Reasons Texas Tech Will Make The 2018 NCAA Tournament

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Jan 2, 2016; Lubbock, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders center Norense Odiase (32) drives to the basket against the Texas Longhorns in the second half at United Supermarkets Arena. Texas Tech defeated Texas 82-74. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 3 The Return of Norsense Odiase

This season, the Texas Tech basketball team was missing a key member of the team. Junior forward Norense Odiase, a two-year starter in the paint, suffered an off-season foot injury that caused him to red-shirt the season.

His absence was a big blow to the team.

The Red Raiders were one of the worst rebounding teams in the Big 12 this year. In fact, the team ranked 9^th out of 10 teams in total rebounds and rebounds per game.

Of the top 15 offensive rebounders in the conference, only one, Zach Smith played for Texas Tech. Smith and Justin Gray were the only Red Raiders in the top 15 in the league in defensive rebounds per game as well.

But Odiase also brings a much-needed offensive skill to the team. He is the only true back-to-the basket player on the roster.

Without the big Fort Worth native, Tech lacked a player that it could dump the ball into on the block. One of the reasons the offense struggled at times this year was because it was predicated on too many jump shots.

When a team goes through shooting droughts, it is essential to have a big man capable to doing work in the paint and Odiase is that guy for Beard’s team. Having him back on the court next year will make Texas Tech stronger in the paint on both ends of the floor.

While Texas Tech looks forward to the return of Odiase, some fresh faces should also provide a boost next year.

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