Texas Tech University Athletics
Texas Tech agrees to new contract with Krista Gerlich
April 08, 2026 | Women's Basketball
LUBBOCK, Texas – Texas Tech agreed to a new four-year contract with Krista Gerlich on Wednesday that will keep the Lady Raiders' head coach at her alma mater through the 2029-30 season.
The new contract includes a stipulation for an additional year to be added to the contract should the Lady Raiders make the NCAA Tournament at any point during the first four seasons. The $3.1 million contract also includes an enhanced bonus structure for conference and postseason achievements.
"Our women's basketball program took considerable strides this past season under Coach Gerlich, and this new contract reflects our support in continuing to build upon that success," Director of Athletics Kirby Hocutt said. "I believe our best days are in front of us and look forward to seeing our Lady Raider program continue to elevate under her direction."
Texas Tech is coming off its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2013 and its first NCAA Tournament victory since 2005 under Gerlich, who has recorded 103 wins at her alma mater with overall winning seasons in each of the past four seasons. The Lady Raiders put together a 26-8 overall record and a 12-6 Big 12 record, finishing tied for fourth in conference after being picked 13th in the preseason poll.
Spending 12-consecutive weeks in the top-25 national polls, Texas Tech earned its highest conference finish since the 2012-13 season, its most overall wins since the 2002-03 season and its most Big 12 wins since the 2004-05 season. Gerlich was named the Big 12 Coach of the Year and was a semifinalist for the Naismith Women's College Coach of the Year Award after pushing Texas Tech to three top-15 victories on the season as well as a record 19-0 start.
"I am extremely grateful to Kirby Hocutt and our administration for the opportunity to extend my commitment to Lady Raider Basketball," Gerlich said. "After navigating through a rebuilding phase and enjoying a long-awaited, historic season, we have laid a strong foundation for the future of this program. This is not just a personal milestone; it's a shared commitment to our dedicated players, alumni and community. Together, we will continue to strive for honor and make Texas Tech and the city of Lubbock proud."
Texas Tech is currently accepting season ticket deposits for the 2026-27 campaign by visiting TexasTech.com/tickets. Current season ticket holders do not need to place a deposit and will receive renewal information later this summer.
