LeJuan Watts has announced his transfer to Texas Tech University, marking his third collegiate program in as many years. The 6-foot-6 sophomore, who previously played at Eastern Washington University, was a leader for the Cougars during the 2024–25 season, averaging 13.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.
After the Cougars’ season-ending loss to San Francisco in the WCC quarterfinals, Watts said he planned to be with David Riley for the rest of his career.
“I’m just loyal to the guys and the guys that want to be here,” said Watts. “Coach Riley, obviously, me coming from Eastern. I think I’m always going to be with Coach Riley for the rest of my career.”
Riley, who coached Watts at Eastern and WSU, praised the player’s growth and loyalty.
“He’s grown so much as a player to where he was a redshirt his first year at Eastern and now he’s putting up triple doubles in the WCC, getting legitimate calls about him as an NBA player,” said Riley. “It’s just really special to see someone that cares this much. That’s this great of a person.”
At Texas Tech, Watts will join a program under head coach Grant McCasland, who has emphasized building a competitive team with experienced transfers. The Red Raiders aim to leverage Watts’ versatility and leadership as they contend in the Big 12 Conference.
“Now, the Red Raiders know that they have a capable small forward who can fill up the stat sheet in ways similar to Williams,” writes Matthew Conner for Wreck ’em Red, a Texas Tech blog affiliated with FanSided. “In Watts, Tech has found maybe the best possible option to man the small forward spot for 2025-26.”
It was reported by CougFan.com that WSU attempted to bring Watts back with a significant NIL offer, but that he apparently fell out of their price range. According to Dylan Haugh, Watts’ final deal from Texas Tech is around $1.75 million.
“Life-changing money for LeJuan Watts,” Haugh wrote on X.
The Cougars continue to work towards replacing their entire starting lineup from last season.
