Lubbock, Texas— In a moving moment that goes beyond basketball, Texas Tech Red Raiders men’s basketball head coach Grant McCasland took a break from his hectic summer schedule to deliver a sweet birthday message to his wife, Cece McCasland, as she turned 44. The senior coach, known for his aggressiveness on the court and cool demeanor off it, revealed a new side of himself—one filled with tremendous gratitude, adoration, and love.
Coach McCasland stated in a moving tribute shared on his personal and team social media accounts, “Today we celebrate someone whose strength, grace, and faith have been the foundation of not only our family but everything I’ve accomplished.” Cece, happy 44th birthday. Your love and undying support have gotten me through the most difficult battles and greatest successes. “You’re my anchor.”
The statement was accompanied by a series of images, some from family holidays and others showing her cheering on the court during high-stakes games. Cece is shown embracing Grant minutes after Texas Tech won a crucial Big 12 game last season, a poignant reminder of how important she has been to his coaching career.
Those close to the McCasland family describe Cece as a quiet presence behind the scenes—a woman of profound faith, compassion, and courage who has delicately handled the frenzy of college basketball life. Whether it’s traveling to new places, raising their children, or creating a supportive home atmosphere that feeds Grant’s achievement, she’s been a rock of strength and stability.
“Cece has this calming presence,” one Red Raiders employee stated. “In a world where everything is constantly changing and high pressure, she reminds everyone what really matters—family, faith, love, and integrity.”
Grant McCasland has frequently emphasized the sacrifices his wife has made during his coaching career. Cece has been a consistent source of strength and perspective, from his early coaching days at Midwestern State and Baylor to his career at North Texas and now as the head coach of one of the Big 12’s finest institutions.
“To the world, I might be the head coach,” McCasland wrote in his greeting, “but in our home, you’re the MVP.” You’ve been a coach’s wife, a mother, a counselor, a prayer warrior, and the glue that connects everything. Our children are better off because of you. I am better because of you. “We all are.”
The couple, who have been married for more than 20 years, has long been praised for their strong friendship and similar ideals. Their dedication to family, faith, and servant leadership is frequently reflected in McCasland’s coaching philosophy, which emphasizes character, hard effort, and teamwork.
During a closed team practice, players and staff surprised Cece with a birthday cake, which was followed by a group prayer and applause for her. It was a moment that not only honored her life, but also highlighted the familial culture that Grant McCasland has established at Texas Tech Basketball.
As the Red Raiders prepare for another competitive season under McCasland’s guidance, one thing is clear: the program’s heartbeat extends beyond the court—and a lot of that is down to Cece McCasland’s unwavering presence.