Texas Tech basketball: Red Raiders struggle but still down San Jose St.

Joe Toussaint brings some toughness to this Texas Tech program

In some ways, this game was low-scoring because both teams played bad basketball.  There were 34 missed 3-point shots between the two teams and 27 combined turnovers.

However, at times, each team played some rugged defense making this feel like a typical Big 12 game.  That’s why Joe Toussaint likely felt rather comfortable as things tightened up.

The West Virginia transfer has played in 133 career games.  That includes 24 in the Big 12.

So when the Red Raiders needed someone to step up with Isaacs struggling, the New York City native was able to answer the bell.  In fact, it was his offensive outburst that helped springboard his team to a win.

His three-pointer with 7:33 to go briefly put Tech ahead by a point.  Then, on the ensuing Tech possession, he would answer a San Jose St. 3-pointer with an old-school 3-point play of his own as he sank a shot despite stumbling as he went to the rim and despite being fouled.

Putting Tech up 41-40 with a personal 6-point outburst, he gave his team the lead for good.  That was important, obviously, because it helped prevent an upset.

It was also telling because, when the Red Raiders were struggling and in need of someone to make a play or two, Toussaint answered the bell.  Might he be who McCasland turns to moving forward to help his team navigate tough situations?

For the day, Toussaint would put up 10 points, 3 rebounds, and an assist in 35 minutes.  However, the toughness he brought to the table can’t be measured.  It was easy to notice, though.