Texas A&M wrapped up the 2025-2026 regular season with a solid 21-10 record, finishing 11-7 in the SEC. This impressive performance tied them for fourth in the conference standings, marking a standout achievement for head coach Bucky McMillan in his debut season-a testament to his impact as one of the top offseason hires.
The journey to those 20-plus wins wasn't without its challenges. Early in the season, the Aggies faced adversity when Indiana transfer forward Mackenzie Mgbako was sidelined for the year after only a few non-conference games. This forced McMillan to pivot, leaning on his seasoned roster and transfer portal additions to embrace a small-ball strategy, focusing on outscoring opponents despite a size disadvantage.
This approach paid dividends early in SEC play, as the Aggies raced to a 7-1 conference record. However, teams like the Florida Gators and Arkansas Razorbacks highlighted their lack of size.
Despite this, McMillan stuck to his game plan, relying heavily on his senior players, particularly Kansas transfer guard Rylan Griffen. The team closed the regular season strong, securing key victories over Kentucky at home and LSU on the road.
Griffen has been a standout performer, dropping 21 points against the Wildcats and 24 in a thrilling triple-overtime win against LSU. His sharpshooting, with nine threes in each of those victories, will be crucial as the Aggies look to make noise in the postseason and potentially secure an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament. As the SEC Tournament looms, Griffen reflected on the significance of making March Madness in McMillan's first year.
“If we get to the tournament and do something special, it’s something we can remember and be remembered for. It’s Bucky’s first team and for all the things we’ve overcome, it’s bigger than just us, it’s for the program.”
Griffen's sentiment underscores the broader vision. While this marks his final season alongside key players like star forward Rashaun Agee, clinching an NCAA Tournament spot lays the groundwork for Texas A&M's ascent under McMillan's leadership.
The Aggies are set to face the winner of Oklahoma vs. South Carolina on Thursday at 8:30 p.m., with the game broadcast on the SEC Network.