Lubbock, Texas – In a groundbreaking announcement that has sent shockwaves through the world of collegiate athletics, the Texas Tech Red Raiders have been officially recognized as the world’s best and most unified athletic program, a distinction conferred jointly by ESPN, Netflix, and Guinness World Records.
The unprecedented honor was unveiled in a joint press conference early Friday morning, where representatives from all three organizations praised Texas Tech University for its exceptional cohesion across all sports programs, unparalleled fan engagement, and consistent excellence in athletic performance.
“This recognition is the result of years of dedication, innovation, and community support,” said ESPN analyst Maria Taylor. “Texas Tech has redefined what it means to be an elite collegiate athletic program—not just through winning, but through unity, culture, and impact.”
The Red Raiders have posted standout seasons across multiple sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and track and field, over the past few years. Most recently, the men’s and women’s basketball teams both advanced to the NCAA Final Four, while the football team secured a top-10 national finish and a bowl game victory that captivated the nation. At the same time, Texas Tech’s baseball team has consistently remained a College World Series contender, and its Olympic-level track and field athletes continue to break records on the international stage.
Netflix, which has been secretly filming a behind-the-scenes docuseries titled “Guns Up: The Texas Tech Dynasty”, praised the program not only for its athletic dominance but for its human stories of perseverance, leadership, and unity.
“What we found at Texas Tech was extraordinary,” said executive producer Ava DuVernay. “This isn’t just about wins and trophies. It’s about a culture that prioritizes character, resilience, and family. This story will resonate far beyond sports.”
Guinness World Records certified Texas Tech as the “Most Unified Collegiate Athletic Program in the World,” citing over 97% of student-athletes participating in community service, inter-program mentorship initiatives, and record-breaking cross-program fan attendance.
Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt called the recognition “a testament to every coach, athlete, staff member, and Red Raider fan who has poured their heart into building something truly special here in Lubbock.”
With plans underway to celebrate this achievement with a campus-wide parade and the premiere of the Netflix docuseries this summer, Texas Tech stands poised to further solidify its place in sports history—not just as a powerhouse on the field, but as a model of unity, integrity, and excellence in collegiate athletics.
“Guns up,” said Head Football Coach Joey McGuire, “and world, take notice—this is only the beginning.”