Texas Tech Adds Damarion Dennis from Wyoming to Bolster Backcourt for 2026

The Texas Tech Red Raiders made an early offseason move aimed at reshaping its roster for the 2026 campaign, securing a key addition through the transfer portal following a disappointing March Madness finish. The program is working to rebound after a second-round exit to Alabama in the previous NCAA Tournament.

Head coach Grant McCasland added guard Damarion Dennis from the Wyoming Cowboys, bringing in an experienced perimeter player with proven production in the Mountain West Conference. The move was confirmed through recruiting reports on Sunday.

Dennis, an All-Mountain West Honorable Mention selection, joins Texas Tech after a productive sophomore season in which he established himself as a reliable scoring option. His arrival addresses backcourt depth and playmaking needs heading into a pivotal year for the program.

The transfer also marks a return to Texas for the San Antonio native, who began his basketball journey in the state before taking a multi-stop collegiate path that ultimately led him back to a Power Five program.

1. Proven Scorer Adds Depth to Backcourt

Dennis brings immediate offensive value to Texas Tech after averaging 11.2 points per game during his sophomore season at Wyoming. At 6-foot-1, he played as a versatile combo guard capable of initiating offense and creating scoring opportunities. He demonstrated his scoring ability with multiple high-output performances, including three games with at least 20 points. One of his most notable outings came against Utah State, where he scored 20 points in a narrow two-point loss to the conference champion. Dennis also provided consistent production in postseason play, scoring 17 points in the National Invitation Tournament against Wichita State. That game marked his final appearance for Wyoming following a competitive showing in a 74-70 defeat. His ability to produce in both regular-season and high-pressure settings gives Texas Tech a more dynamic perimeter option as it reshapes its rotation.

2. Return to Texas After Multi-Stop College Journey

Dennis’ path back to Texas Tech began in San Antonio, where he starred at Veterans Memorial High School and earned a three-star recruiting rating. He initially received multiple scholarship offers before committing to Texas A&M–Corpus Christi. At the mid-major level, he developed early experience, appearing in 34 games and earning nine starts as a freshman. While his numbers were modest, he contributed as a developing guard with defensive energy and passing potential. After one season, Dennis transferred to Wyoming, where he found a stronger offensive rhythm and expanded role. His sophomore campaign marked a clear step forward in efficiency and confidence. Now returning to his home state, Dennis transitions into a Power Five program, representing a significant step up in competition within the Big 12 landscape.

3. Texas Tech Builds Toward 2026 Expectations

Texas Tech enters the offseason looking to build on a mixed NCAA Tournament showing, where its only victory came against Akron before being eliminated in the second round. The program has emphasized roster upgrades through the transfer portal. Dennis is expected to compete for meaningful minutes immediately, particularly in a backcourt that values ball handling and perimeter scoring. His experience in multiple systems could help him adjust quickly to Big 12 play. The addition also aligns with Texas Tech’s broader goal of pushing back into national rankings after fluctuating form in recent seasons. Early projections already suggest the roster could generate Top 25 consideration. With Dennis joining an already retooled group, McCasland’s team is positioning itself for a more balanced and experienced rotation heading into the 2026 campaign.