The Texas Tech Lady Raiders are building on their momentum, securing head coach Krista Gerlich with a contract extension through the 2029-30 season. This move comes as a direct reward for a landmark year, where Gerlich led the program to its best finish in decades.

Gerlich, a Texas Tech alumna, just completed her sixth season by engineering a remarkable turnaround. The Lady Raiders finished 26-8, earned their first NCAA Tournament bid since 2013, and secured their first March Madness victory since 2005—a historic run that also earned Gerlich Big 12 Coach of the Year honors.

The new deal, valued at $3.1 million, underscores the university's commitment to sustained success. It includes a powerful incentive: for each of the next four seasons the team makes the NCAA Tournament, an additional year will be added to Gerlich's contract. The agreement also features performance bonuses for conference and postseason achievements, setting clear goals for the program's future.

"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," said Athletics Director Kirby Hocutt. "I believe our best days are in front of us."

For Gerlich, who now holds a 103-91 record at her alma mater, the extension validates a rebuilding process that has finally borne major fruit. "After navigating through a rebuilding phase and enjoying a long-awaited, historic season, we have laid a strong foundation," Gerlich stated. "This is a shared commitment to our dedicated players, alumni, and community."

With stability at the helm and a taste of postseason success, the Lady Raiders have signaled their intent to remain a rising force in the competitive Big 12 conference.