In a move that has stunned college basketball fans and recruiting analysts alike, Texas Tech has landed a major coup with the commitment of Nolan Groves — Minnesota’s 2025 Gatorade Player of the Year and one of the most prolific scorers in the country. Groves, who averaged an eye-popping 34.2 points per game during his senior season at Orono High School, originally committed to Yale, but announced this week that he is flipping his commitment to Texas Tech.
The decision marks a major win for the Red Raiders and head coach Grant McCasland, who continues to retool and re-energize the program following a deep run to the Elite Eight this past season. Groves’ decommitment from an Ivy League powerhouse and pivot to a Big 12 contender signals not only a personal shift in athletic ambition but a potential game-changer for Texas Tech’s recruiting strategy.
At 6-foot-5, Groves brings more than just scoring. He’s known for his versatility on offense, high basketball IQ, and relentless motor. Beyond his scoring prowess, Groves also averaged 7.8 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 2.3 steals per game, showcasing a well-rounded game that could transition smoothly to the collegiate level. His ability to create his own shot, shoot from deep, and finish through contact makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses — and a potential freshman phenom for the Red Raiders.
What makes this even more dramatic is the context. Groves was widely expected to stick with Yale, praised for his academic achievements as much as his athletic skill. But his decision to join a Power 5 conference suggests he’s ready to test himself against the best — and perhaps keep a professional future within reach. His addition to the Red Raiders’ roster immediately adds firepower to a team that is already reloading after a breakout season.
With star forward JT Toppin returning and new transfers arriving, Groves enters a competitive but promising environment in Lubbock. His presence could be the missing piece in Texas Tech’s quest for a Big 12 title — and potentially, a Final Four run.
In the world of college hoops, surprises like this don’t come often. But when they do, they can redefine programs.
And for Texas Tech, Nolan Groves might just be that kind of surprise.
