NCAABy Matt Clapp on

Texas Tech hit the jackpot when Georgetown star guard Mac McClung announced that he would transfer and join the Red Raiders last May. And it hasn’t taken long for McClung to make a major impact for Chris Beard’s squad.

McClung scored a game-high 22 points — his fifth 20-plus-point performance of the season — and nailed what would serve as the game-winning shot for No. 15 Texas Tech in a 79-77 road victory over No. 4 Texas on Wednesday night.

With roughly 15 seconds remaining and the game tied 77-77, McClung got the rebound on a missed Longhorns shot. Rather than calling a timeout, McClung chose to play it out and go for the win. He got the job done by connecting on a tough long two with 2.2 seconds remaining (it was originally ruled a three, and looked like it may have indeed been a three on replays, but it was ruled a two after review).

Texas still had a chance on the ensuing play, but missed a long three-point attempt.

The 6’2″ McClung became a viral sensation in high school for his absolutely ridiculous athleticism and dunking ability.

McClung even tried to show off that ability with Texas Tech trailing by four with just over four minutes remaining, when he attempted a playground-esque off-the-backboard play to himself. He was clobbered on the play, but turned it into two free throws and made both of them.

https://twitter.com/thecomeback/status/1349571938931286018

And after the win, McClung had a hilarious, adorable moment during an interview with Fran Fraschilla of ESPN. McClung told Fraschilla, “My teammates are telling me I gotta go. I respect you a lot, Fran. You’re the man. But I gotta go celebrate with my teammates.”

https://twitter.com/awfulannouncing/status/1349577376363999235

The Red Raiders’ victory is just their 11th road win over a ranked team in program history, and they’ve never beaten a team on the road ranked higher than No. 4 Texas. And it’s their first time winning three straight Big 12 road games in the Chris Beard era, which began in the 2016-17 season.

Texas Tech looks like a very dangerous team, and they’re also a very entertaining one. McClung will be one of the most fun players to follow in March Madness.

About Matt Clapp

Matt is an editor at The Comeback. He attended Colorado State University, wishes he was Saved by the Bell's Zack Morris, and idolizes Larry David. And loves pizza and dogs because obviously.

He can be followed on Twitter at @Matt2Clapp (also @TheBlogfines for Cubs/MLB tweets and @DaBearNecess for Bears/NFL tweets), and can be reached by email at mclapp@thecomeback.com.

View all posts by Matt Clapp