Big 12 News and Notes: Texas Tech Hires UNT’s McCasland, Gradey Dick Declares For NBA Draft

As we begin the Final Four weekend in Houston, the Big 12 schools, current and future, are all sitting at home looking to retool their teams. Let’s take a look at what’s going on around the conference in the last day.

Texas Tech Hires UNT HC Grant McCasland

On Friday, Texas Tech University officially announced the hiring of North Texas head coach Grant McCasland. McCasland will replace Mark Adams, who stepped down in March.

“I want to thank President Lawrence Schovanec and Athletics Director Kirby Hocutt, and the committee for the opportunity to coach at Texas Tech,” McCasland said. “The commitment and vision for Texas Tech has no limits and we look forward to loving our team everyday with a greater purpose. We will strive daily for excellence in every aspect of our program, do things the right way, winning championships that values relationships throughout. Our family looks forward to joining the Red Raider nation and can’t wait to get started in Lubbock.”

McCasland spent six seasons at UNT, taking the Mean Green to the NCAA Tournament in 2021, defeating Purdue in the first round. McCasland most recently coached North Texas to an NIT Championship this week.

Kansas G Gradey Dick Declares For NBA Draft

Kansas freshman guard Gradey Dick announced on Friday that he’ll be entering his name into the NBA Draft.

All Glory to God…❤️ pic.twitter.com/Kjb9xeDE57

— Gradey Dick (@gradey_dick) March 31, 2023

During his first season at Kansas, Dick averaged 14.1 points and 5.1 rebounds through 36 games for the Jayhawks. Dick shot 44 percent from the field and 40 percent from three.