The tradition of throwing tortillas at Texas Tech University sporting events, particularly football and basketball games, is a unique and somewhat controversial practice rooted in student culture. This act involves tossing flatbreads onto the field or court, often following a significant play or moment of excitement.
The origin of this custom is debated, with some attributing it to a response to high tortilla prices at campus concession stands in the early 1990s. Others suggest it began as a lighthearted prank that gained momentum and became a recognizable symbol of school spirit. Regardless of the precise genesis, the practice has persisted, evolving into an unofficial, albeit unsanctioned, part of the game-day experience. The act provides a sense of collective identity and shared enthusiasm among students and some alumni.