Texas Tech University Athletics
Newcomer Q&A with Bassala Bagayoko
September 10, 2026 | Men's Basketball
Bassala Bagayoko officially signed with Texas Tech in August and embarked on a journey that brought him from Spain to Lubbock. Bagayoko grew up in Mali before moving to Spain when he was 12 years old – starting a basketball career that had him playing professionally for Bilbao Basket (Liga ACB) in Spain. He speaks four languages - Bambara, French, Spanish - and is in the acquisition process of learning English while also getting acclimated to the Red Raider program and America. At 6-foot-10, he brings size, athleticism and a willingness to learn. We sat down with him for an interview two weeks into his arrival to campus to talk about his mindset and goals for this season.
What do you bring to the team on and off the court?
"Getting rebounds, playing defense and helping the team by bringing energy."
What do you want your teammates and coaches to say about you?
"That I bring energy every day and I play with the team. I love winning."
How will pro experience help here at Texas Tech?
"It's a big difference. I have a lot of experience in basketball in Spain and can help the team with or without the ball."
What's the best advice you've ever received?
"Put energy into every game and you can do it. I try to bring energy to every practice and every game."
What adversity are you most proud of overcoming to get to this point in your journey?
"The biggest challenge I had was the competition. Getting better every time I moved up."
What standard have you set for yourself in your work ethic?
"I work hard all the time. Always push myself harder."
What do you want to embrace the most about playing at Texas Tech?
"It is very important and a big opportunity for me. I'm excited."
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