LUBBOCK, TX – The Texas Tech Red Raiders are heading to the Elite Eight for the first time since their 2019 national championship game run, following a thrilling 85-83 overtime victory against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the Sweet Sixteen. The game, marked by dramatic swings and clutch plays, had fans on the edge of their seats, including Kansas City Chiefs quarterback and Texas Tech alumnus, Patrick Mahomes.

Texas Tech showcased resilience throughout the contest. They clawed their way back from a 16-point second-half deficit to force overtime. Freshman Christian Anderson ignited the comeback with crucial three-pointers, while First-Team All-Big 12 selection Darius Williams delivered the late-game heroics. Williams, despite an uncharacteristic shooting performance, hit a game-tying three-pointer with under ten seconds left in regulation, sending the game into overtime. He then followed it up with a go-ahead layup in overtime with just seven seconds remaining.

The overtime period was a back-and-forth affair. Arkansas, led by D.J. Wagner, answered every Texas Tech basket. Wagner's layup with under a minute remaining tied the score at 83 apiece. However, after Williams' final layup, Arkansas' last-second jumper fell short, sealing the victory for the Red Raiders.

Mahomes, a vocal supporter of his alma mater, expressed his excitement on social media, tweeting, "Toughest Team Wins!!!!" echoing the Texas Tech basketball program's mantra. He recognized the team's grit and determination in overcoming adversity.

Beyond Williams' clutch plays, JT Toppin delivered a stellar performance. He scored 20 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and blocked five shots. Federiko Federiko provided valuable contributions off the bench with seven points and nine rebounds.

The loss was a bitter one for John Calipari and Arkansas. The Razorbacks, making their fourth consecutive Sweet Sixteen appearance, saw their tournament run end in heartbreaking fashion. The game marked a rare NCAA Tournament defeat for Calipari when leading by more than six points at halftime.

Texas Tech now faces a tough challenge against No. 1-seeded Florida in the Elite Eight in San Francisco. The Red Raiders will need to bring the same level of toughness and determination they displayed against Arkansas to advance to the Final Four.

As they prepare for the Gators, the Red Raiders can draw inspiration from Mahomes. They know what it takes to win big games. His support and the team's never-say-die attitude could be the perfect combination for a deep tournament run.