Texas A&M's basketball journey this season was nothing short of remarkable under the guidance of first-year head coach Bucky McMillan. The Aggies wrapped up the year with a 22-12 record and an 11-7 finish in the SEC, marking their fourth straight trip to the NCAA Tournament. This was a surprising feat, especially considering McMillan was the last Power Five head coach hired, stepping in just three days after Buzz Williams left for Maryland.
Faced with the challenge of rebuilding a roster left bare by Williams' departure, McMillan worked magic in the transfer portal, bringing in more than a dozen seasoned players. Among them was senior forward Rashaun Agee, who became the team's leading scorer and rebounder. Despite the loss of standout transfer forward Mackenzie Mgbako, McMillan adapted with a guard-heavy lineup that proved effective in conference play.
The Aggies kicked off their SEC campaign with a strong 7-1 start, though they hit a rough patch with a four-game losing streak. However, crucial wins against Kentucky and LSU at the end of the regular season secured their NCAA Tournament spot as a 10-seed, setting up a first-round clash with 7-seed Saint Mary's.
After a victory over the Gaels, Texas A&M faced a formidable Houston squad. Despite trailing by 18 at halftime and ultimately losing by 31, the Aggies' tournament appearance was a testament to McMillan's impressive roster overhaul. This sets the stage for another pivotal offseason, with the transfer portal once again being key to building the 2026-2027 roster.
While a single season usually doesn't warrant a contract extension, Texas A&M's Athletic Director Trev Alberts clearly sees McMillan as the right leader for a program on the rise. On Friday, it was announced that McMillan signed an extension through 2032.
Alberts praised McMillan's innovative approach, stating, "Bucky McMillan is one of the most innovative minds in college basketball. He and his staff have built a foundation for Aggie basketball that is centered around relentless energy, modern analytics, and a culture players love to be part of.
We believe in his vision and Bucky Ball is here to stay."
McMillan's future in College Station is now secure, and this early move by Alberts helps fend off interest from other programs, especially with potential openings at North Carolina and Kansas looming.
Reflecting on his time at Texas A&M, McMillan shared, "Texas A&M is a special place full of pride and tradition. This community wants to win, and the support is what makes it so special.
What we accomplished this year is just the beginning of what we believe we can achieve in Aggieland. I am beyond grateful for the support and friendship of so many since arriving in College Station.
We are excited to continue building Aggie basketball into a program that all Aggies can be proud of."