News - Texas Tech surprises Duke with an impressive 17-point comeback.

In an exhilarating pre-Christmas showdown, college basketball fans witnessed a thriller as No. 19 Texas Tech mounted a remarkable comeback to defeat the highly-ranked No. 3 Duke at the iconic Madison Square Garden. Trailing by 17 points in the second half, the Red Raiders displayed tenacity and resilience, ultimately securing a pivotal victory. The team was undermanned, entering the game with limited rotation due to several players being sidelined, yet they managed to rally against the previously unbeaten Blue Devils. This standout performance, coupled with contributions from key players like Christian Anderson, who delivered 27 points and crucial free throws in the final seconds, positions Texas Tech favorably as they approach the challenging Big 12 season. The win's implications reverberate through the college basketball landscape, potentially affecting the forthcoming AP Top 25 rankings. The weekend's basketball action also saw significant movement in the rankings, with Arizona Wildcats, Michigan Wolverines, and Iowa State Cyclones projected to lead the AP Top 25. Meanwhile, Duke's defeat is expected to cause a reshuffle in the rankings, with Texas Tech likely climbing to the 16th position. This day of intense basketball action didn’t just impact the rankings. It also served to highlight the seasonal challenges faced by different teams. For instance, St. John's continues to struggle after a disappointing loss to Kentucky. Coach Rick Pitino voiced concerns over the team's poor perimeter play and the lack of a robust facilitator, which has been evident throughout their non-conference schedule. Additionally, the SEC witnessed Tennessee's resurgence as they delivered a commanding 21-point triumph over Louisville, restoring some confidence after a recent slump in performance. Houston also demonstrated their versatility by adapting to a high-scoring victory over Arkansas, displaying their offensive prowess despite defensive lapses. The significance of these games extends beyond immediate victories; they bear implications for each team's morale and strategic adjustments as they transition into conference play. This week's outcomes, particularly Texas Tech's remarkable rally against a formidable Duke squad, set the stage for what promises to be an exciting second half of the college basketball season.