Texas A&M’s new-look backcourt is already drawing national buzz, and the spotlight is landing on PJ Haggerty.
After landing seven transfer portal additions this offseason, Bucky McMillan enters Year 2 with the Aggies coming off an NCAA Tournament trip and carrying bigger expectations into the 2026-2027 season. The headliner among those newcomers is the former Kansas State shooting guard, who arrives after averaging nearly 24 points per game last season.
That production is part of why college basketball personality Nick Bateman went out on a limb with his final preseason picks and tabbed Haggerty to win the John R. Wooden Award, which goes to the "most outstanding men's and women's player of the year."
Haggerty looks built for McMillan’s system. Texas A&M wants pace, pressure and constant downhill action, and Haggerty fits that mold as a slashing guard who can get to the foul line or create kick-out chances for shooters. That kind of attack is the backbone of McMillan’s offense.
The Aggies also have reason to believe the scoring load can be spread more cleanly this season. Senior forward Rashaun Agee was the team’s primary scoring option last year, but his departure does not leave the same kind of hole with former Indiana transfer forward Mackenze Mgbako back fully healthy after missing all but seven games last season.
If former Texas guard Jordan Pope remains healthy, Haggerty should have the chance to lead Texas A&M in scoring while operating at his more natural shooting guard spot.
Texas A&M opens the season against Alabama State on Tuesday, November 3.
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