A Pen Open Letter from Denae Fritz To the Texas Tech Lady Raiders, our amazing fans, and the Lubbock community
As I sit down to write this, my heart is filled with nothing but gratitude. It’s hard to put into words what this past year has meant to me, but I want to take a moment to thank each and every person who has made my journey here so meaningful.
To Coach Gerlich and the entire coaching staff — thank you for believing in me, for pushing me, and for giving me the chance to be a part of something bigger than basketball. You created an environment where I was able to grow not just as a player, but as a leader, a teammate, and a young woman finding her voice. Your trust and encouragement made all the difference.
To my teammates — you are my sisters. We went through the grind together — the early mornings, the late nights, the tough losses, and the incredible wins. I’ve never felt more supported, more inspired, or more at home with a group of women who gave their all, day in and day out. I’ll always carry the bond we built, both on and off the court.
To the fans — thank you for showing up, for cheering loud, and for being with us every step of the way. Walking into United Supermarkets Arena and hearing the roar of Raider Nation gave me chills every single time. Your energy lifted us when we were tired, your passion reminded us of why we do this, and your unwavering support meant more than you’ll ever know.
And to the greater Lubbock and Texas Tech community — thank you for welcoming me with open arms. You didn’t just support us as athletes — you saw us as people. You gave us love and encouragement beyond the game. Whether it was a kind word at the grocery store, a message on social media, or just a smile in passing, those little moments made a big impact.
This past year has been one of tremendous growth for me — not just in terms of skill or performance, but in character and confidence. I’ve learned how to lead with purpose, how to stay grounded in the face of pressure, and how to persevere when things got tough. That kind of growth doesn’t happen in isolation — it happens when you’re surrounded by a community that believes in you. That’s exactly what I found here in Lubbock.
As I look ahead to the next chapter, please know that a piece of my heart will always be with Texas Tech. This place will forever be a part of my journey. I’m proud to have worn the scarlet and black, and I’ll continue to carry the lessons and love I’ve found here wherever I go.
With heartfelt thanks and all my love,
Denae Fritz
#LadyRaiderForLife