Texas Tech’s Big 12 Title Sparks Overnight Printing Frenzy at Lubbock Shop

As Texas Tech clinched the Big 12 Championship on Saturday, jubilant fans took to the streets, while a well-established Lubbock business ramped up its operations. California Tees, a community-focused screen-printing and embroidery shop located across from campus, commenced the production of official championship shirts ahead of the final whistle.

Owner Madison Baker reported that her team hurried to the shop at halftime, bought a TV en route, and monitored the game from the print room. “Once the scoreboard was accurate, we jumped right in and began promptly at 3,” Baker stated.

California Tees has unveiled two licensed championship designs, offering a total of four versions, including youth and women’s sizes. Production exceeded 2,700 shirts, all produced on a single press. The expedited timeline required overnight shifts, weekend labor, and coordination that exceeded the shop's usual Monday-to-Friday routine.

Baker noted that supply delays contributed to the urgency of the situation. Late-night courier services from Dallas ensured the timely delivery of blank shirts, enabling seamless production. “We’re certainly past the halfway mark,” she stated on Monday. “The more challenging aspect lies in the sorting and shipping process.”

The shop is expanding its reach, now shipping to over 40 stores across the state via UPS Next Day Air to accommodate the growing demand as the holiday shopping season and bowl-game festivities approach. In Lubbock, the local retail partner saw eager customers waiting at the door before it opened. Baker noted that the enthusiasm surrounding the championship invigorated the team throughout a challenging weekend. “There was an overwhelming amount of spirit, with honking and screaming,” she stated. “It was a delightful experience that truly motivated us.”

California Tees is unable to sell championship merchandise directly because of licensing restrictions. However, participating retailers throughout Texas started receiving shipments earlier this week. The swift turnaround stands out as one of the most challenging in the company's nearly 50-year history.

For Baker, a Texas Tech alumna, this moment symbolized a blend of professional achievement and personal pride. She described the project as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity, highlighting the dedication of the staff, who worked tirelessly through the night to provide championship gear, all while the celebrations unfolded just blocks away.