Local
Texas Tech’s Masked Rider named No. 4 mascot in the nation, No. 1 in Big 12
Summary by The Lubbock Editorial Desk · Based on reporting from KCBD News
· August 26, 2026
· 2 min read
LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - The Masked Rider was named to the Top 10 of USA Today Sports’ Reader’s Choice Awards for Best College Mascot, finishing as the No. 4 mascot in the country. In addition to its top-five national finish, the Masked Rider was ranked as the No. 1 mascot in the Big 12 Conference...
Key takeaway “This recognition confirms what Red Raiders have known since 1954: The Masked Rider is one of college athletics’ most iconic mascots.
Why this matters in The Lubbock
The Masked Rider's top ranking is a point of pride for the Lubbock community, which has rallied around Texas Tech's iconic mascot for generations. As the city's largest employer and a major driver of local economic activity, Texas Tech's success has a direct impact on Lubbock's prosperity. The Masked Rider's national recognition will likely boost tourism and attract new visitors to Lubbock, who come to experience the excitement of a Red Raiders game and the unique traditions that surround it. With the Transfer of Reins ceremony and the dramatic pregame entrance, the Masked Rider has become an integral part of Lubbock's cultural identity, symbolizing the city's strong sense of community and school spirit. As Sofie Jones represents Texas Tech as the 65th Masked Rider, her involvement with the Honors College and the Texas Tech Rodeo Team also highlights the university's commitment to academic excellence and extracurricular opportunities, which benefit students and the broader Lubbock community.
About this story
Original reporting by KCBD News . The Lubbock selects stories from publishers’ feeds, summarises them, and links back to the publisher that reported them. We add no reporting of our own. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KCBD News . Have a tip or correction? Contact the editor .
Category: Local ·
Published: August 26, 2026 ·
Source: KCBD News ·
Reading time: 2 min
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