Texas Tech men’s basketball began its first official workout for the 2026-27 season Tuesday with Jamichael Stillwell, Darrion Williams and Donovan Atwell still listed on the active roster. Each player has sought a temporary injunction in an eligibility case.
Williams is returning after playing for NC State in 2025-26. He spent his first two college seasons at Texas Tech and was part of the team that advanced to the Elite Eight in 2024-25. Coach Grant McCasland said Williams’ return followed an unusual process that eventually included Williams asking whether Texas Tech would keep a scholarship available for him.
Williams is one of 31 players in a case that produced a temporary injunction allowing a fifth season of eligibility. Atwell and Stillwell are pursuing an additional season in separate cases. McCasland said the program will move forward with the players cleared to compete and has enough capable athletes to manage possible roster changes.
McCasland said the roster was assembled around athleticism, competitiveness and experience, along with a shared desire to win and commitment to one another. Atwell shot 45.8% from 3-point range on a career-best 8.4 attempts per game last season and earned All-Big 12 honorable mention. The Red Raiders’ season begins Nov. 2 at United Supermarkets Arena.
