It was a strong Friday across multiple fronts for the Texas Tech Red Raiders, highlighted by a dominant softball win, key football staff additions, and a men’s tennis victory at home.
Softball Remains Undefeated
Top-ranked Texas Tech improved to 9-0 with an 8-0 run-rule win over No. 23 FAU Owls.
The Red Raiders broke the game open with a five-run third inning. Desirae Spearman hit her first home run of the season as part of that surge, while Jackie Lis added a two-RBI single to extend the lead.
Lauren Allred contributed a two-run homer and drove in another run on a groundout. Mia Williams added a double offensively and made a standout defensive play by turning a diving double play at second base.
NiJaree Canady continued her impressive start in the circle, throwing five shutout innings while allowing just two hits and striking out seven. She moved to 4-0 on the season and lowered her ERA to 0.97.
Texas Tech will face the NC State Wolfpack and James Madison Dukes on Saturday.
Football Adds NFL Experience to Staff
Head coach Joey McGuire strengthened the defensive coaching staff with two hires from the NFL ranks.
Imarjaye Albury Sr. joins as defensive line coach after spending six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings in various roles, including assistant defensive line coach. During his time in Minnesota, the Vikings consistently produced strong pass rush numbers and made multiple playoff appearances.
Before his NFL tenure, Albury coached at the collegiate level with the Arkansas Razorbacks and began his coaching career at Cortland State. He played collegiately at Florida International after starting at West Virginia.
Texas Tech also hired Jacquies Smith as outside linebackers coach following his time with the Atlanta Falcons. Smith helped oversee a Falcons defense that set a franchise record for sacks in 2025.
Prior to Atlanta, Smith worked with edge defenders at the Texas Longhorns and previously starred as a player at the Missouri Tigers before his NFL career.
Men’s Tennis Secures Home Win
Texas Tech men’s tennis earned a 5-2 victory over the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns at the McLeod Tennis Center.
After dropping the doubles point, the Red Raiders responded by winning five of six singles matches. Felipe Pagnacco delivered a decisive straight-set win, while Niksa Arsic, Ludovico Vaccari, and Stewart added victories to clinch the match. Sebastian Abboud secured an additional point in extended play.
Texas Tech returns to action Sunday at home against the New Mexico State Aggies.
