The Texas Tech men’s basketball program has secured a significant commitment from Nolan Groves, the 2024-2025 Minnesota Gatorade Player of the Year. The 6-foot-5 guard from Orono High School announced his decision to join the Red Raiders following an official visit to Lubbock.
Groves enjoyed a stellar senior season, leading the state of Minnesota in scoring with an impressive 34.1 points per game. He also averaged 8.5 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 3.0 steals, showcasing his all-around能力. His scoring prowess was particularly notable, as he recorded nine games with 40 or more points, including a season-high of 57. Groves led Orono to the Class 3A state tournament and concluded his high school career with a strong 29-point performance in the third-place game.
Prior to committing to Texas Tech, Groves had initially pledged to Yale during his junior year. However, he reopened his recruitment and received offers from several programs, including Minnesota and Wisconsin. Ultimately, he chose Texas Tech after his visit, citing his connection with head coach Grant McCasland and his excitement about the program’s direction following their Elite Eight run in the 2025 NCAA Tournament.
“I like what’s going on over at Tech,” Groves told the Minnesota Star Tribune. “They almost took down Florida, the national champs. Texas Tech had a phenomenal team last year. They have lots of studs returning and coming in out of the transfer portal.”
Groves is the fifth player to officially sign with Texas Tech for the 2025-2026 season, joining transfers Tyeree Bryan, LeJuan Watts, Donovan Atwell, and Josiah Moseley. His addition bolsters the Red Raiders’ backcourt and provides a talented scorer and playmaker for coach McCasland.
As the Minnesota Gatorade Player of the Year, Groves joins a prestigious list of former winners recognized for their athletic excellence, academic achievement (he holds a 3.8 GPA), and exemplary character, which includes his volunteer work as a Special Olympics basketball coach.
His commitment is a significant recruiting victory for Texas Tech, securing a highly-regarded talent who chose the Red Raiders over his home-state program. Groves’ arrival adds to the optimism surrounding the Texas Tech basketball program as they aim to build on their recent success.
