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The Texas A&M men's basketball team launches its 2026-27 season on Tuesday, welcoming Alabama State to Reed Arena. The contest signals the beginning of Bucky McMillan's second year as head coach of the Aggies, who are aiming to build on last season's NCAA Tournament berth.
In his inaugural season, McMillan steered Texas A&M to a 22-12 overall record and an 11-7 mark in SEC play, good for fourth place in the conference. The Aggies averaged 86.1 points per game and set several program records, but the upcoming roster will have a markedly different look.
Only five players return from last year's squad, while 11 newcomers have joined the program. PJ Haggerty highlights the additions after averaging 23.4 points per game at Kansas State last season. The Aggies also welcome back Mackenzie Mgbako, whose first season in College Station was limited to seven games due to injury. Both players will be crucial as McMillan works to build chemistry within his new lineup.
Texas A&M enters Tuesday's opener following a 94-88 exhibition loss to SMU on Oct. 25. Haggerty scored 28 points in that game, while Jordan Pope added 15. Alabama State, meanwhile, finished 10-22 last season and begins its first year under head coach Chris Wright. Tuesday will mark the first-ever meeting between the two programs.
Game Information
Date: Tuesday, November 3
Start time: 7 p.m. CT
Location: Reed Arena, College Station, Texas
TV Channel: SEC Network+
Stream: ESPN App
The game will stream on SEC Network+ and will not air on the SEC Network's traditional television channel.
Key Players to Watch
- PJ Haggerty (G): Averaged 23.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists at Kansas State last season. Scored 28 points in the exhibition against SMU.
- Jordan Pope (G): Transferred from Texas after averaging 13.1 points per game last season. Added 15 points against SMU.
- Mackenzie Mgbako (F): Returns after an injury-shortened 2025-26 season. Averaged 10.4 points and 4.9 rebounds in seven appearances.
- Tyshawn Archie (G): Transfer from McNeese who averaged 14.3 points per game last season.
- Cade Phillips (F): Veteran frontcourt addition from Tennessee who brings SEC experience.
- Zach Clemence (F): The 6-foot-11 senior returns after averaging 6.9 points and 3.2 rebounds last season. He provides experience and perimeter shooting.
Prediction and Analysis
Odds: A verified BetMGM spread, over/under, and moneyline were not available as of Monday, Nov. 2.
The Aggies have considerable roster turnover to manage, and their exhibition loss to SMU showed that McMillan's new group still has areas to improve. However, Texas A&M should have a significant advantage in offensive talent, particularly with Haggerty leading the backcourt. Alabama State enters with a new head coach and its own adjustments to make. Playing at Reed Arena against an Aggies team looking to establish its identity will be a difficult opening assignment.
Texas A&M should control the pace and create enough scoring opportunities to begin McMillan's second season with a comfortable victory.
Prediction: Texas A&M 91, Alabama State 68
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Originally reported by yahoo.