It’s taken a little time, but Texas A&M basketball is finally starting to turn heads-and not just in College Station. Under first-year head coach Bucky McMillan, the Aggies have found their rhythm, and now they’re sitting alone atop the SEC standings with a 7-1 record in conference play. That surge was punctuated by a convincing 92-77 road win over Georgia on Saturday, and on Monday, the Aggies got their first nod in the national rankings this season, slotting in at No. 25 in the USA Today Coaches Poll.
They haven’t cracked the AP Top 25 just yet, but they’re knocking loudly-listed first in the “others receiving votes” category. Translation: they’re right on the doorstep.
And now comes the real test.
This week, Texas A&M faces arguably its toughest stretch of SEC play so far, with back-to-back matchups that could define just how legitimate this team is as a contender. First up: a Wednesday road trip to face Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m. on SEC Network.
Now, don’t let Alabama’s 4-4 SEC record fool you. This is still one of the most talented rosters in the conference.
Yes, they’re coming off a rough 23-point loss to Florida, but that doesn’t change the fact that they’re dangerous-especially in the paint. The Crimson Tide have size, athleticism, and the kind of physicality that could challenge the Aggies’ frontcourt depth.
It’s a game that’ll test A&M’s toughness and composure on the road.
Then, just three days later, the Aggies return home for what might be an even bigger showdown: a Saturday night clash against No. 17 Florida at Reed Arena. That one tips at 7:30 p.m., also on SEC Network.
The Gators came into the season as the preseason pick to win the SEC, and they’ve largely lived up to the hype. At 7-2 in conference play, they’re right behind A&M in the standings and have been playing with the kind of swagger you expect from a team with championship aspirations. Florida’s balance on both ends of the floor and their ability to control tempo make them a tough out for anyone, especially on the road.
For A&M, this week is about more than just rankings. Win one of these games, and they’re likely in the AP Top 25 next week. Win both, and they’re not just ranked-they’re firmly in the conversation as a legitimate SEC title contender and a team no one wants to see in March.
What’s remarkable is how fast this team has come together. Just nine months ago, this roster was still being assembled.
Now, they’re playing like a group that’s been through battles together. McMillan’s system is clicking, the players are buying in, and the results speak for themselves.
We’re about to find out just how high this Aggies team can climb. But one thing’s for sure: they’re no longer flying under the radar.