Four-star twins Adonis and Darius Ratliff have officially switched their verbal commitment from the Louisville Cardinals to the Red Raiders, marking a significant recruiting victory for Texas Tech basketball. The Class of 2026 standouts announced their decision earlier this week, sending shockwaves across the recruiting world and changing the future direction of several teams. The Ratliff twins, both ranked among the top 75 prospects in the 2026 class, initially committed to Louisville in the summer of 2024. At the time, the Cardinals were trying to lay a new foundation with new leadership. However, following months of behind-the-scenes ambiguity and increased interest from other elite programs, the Georgia-based duo decided to restart its recruitment in early April 2025.
Finally, the Red Raiders surprised everyone by winning the sweepstakes. According to family sources, the twins found Texas Tech’s ability to give a unified vision of player development, NIL assistance, and playing opportunities too appealing to pass up. Head coach Grant McCasland and his staff prioritized the boys from the moment they reopened their recruitment, paying them repeated visits and hosting them for a high-profile spring weekend in Lubbock.
“They made us feel like family from the start,” stated Adonis Ratliff. “Coach McCasland and his staff showed us a plan — not just for one of us, but for both of us — and that really stood out.” Darius mirrored his brother’s sentiments: “We wanted to be somewhere where we could grow together and have an immediate influence. Texas Tech checked all of the boxes.
Adonis, a 6-foot-7 wing recognized for his explosive agility and two-way ability, is regarded as one of the best defenders in the class. Darius, a 6-foot-5 guard, offers exceptional court vision, shot-making ability, and toughness to the backcourt. They are projected to create one of the Big 12’s most dynamic freshman duos when they get on campus. The loss is a huge setback for Louisville, especially because the school was starting to gain momentum in recruiting. Meanwhile, Arkansas and Texas A&M will have to turn their attention to other top prospects after the Ratliff brothers’ decision formally removes one of the region’s most prized packages from the market.
For Texas Tech fans, the announcement is a major morale boost and a clear statement of intent. With the additions of Adonis and Darius Ratliff, the Red Raiders not only strengthen their 2026 class but also establish themselves as significant contenders in the national recruiting discourse. In a quickly changing collegiate basketball landscape, victories like this could be crucial. The Ratliff twins’ trip has only just begun, and it’s taking them directly through Lubbock.