Texas A&M Basketball Teams Set for Weekend Showdowns
BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION – The Texas A&M women's basketball team is preparing to face No. 25 Ole Miss on Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. inside Reed Arena. With the Aggies entering the matchup with a record of 7-6 and coming off their opening SEC game, they are eager to bounce back after their second-half comeback attempt against Tennessee, scoring 52 points and shooting 56% during the game.
Leading the effort for the Aggies is Jada Malone, shooting impressively at 66.3% this season, closely followed by Aicha Coulibaly, who has averaged 12.7 points per game. Coulibaly's remarkable shooting percentage of 52.8% sets her as one of the key players the team relies on as they prepare for Ole Miss, which is visiting with their own momentum, having won their last five matches.
Texas A&M will look to utilize Lauren Ware's strength under the basket, noted for ranking 25th nationally for blocks per game. The game's significance is highlighted by promotions for fans, including exclusive giveaways for students and activities aimed at creating a family-friendly environment. Fans can connect through the 12th Man Rewards program and enjoy free parking, making the matchup accessible.
Meanwhile, the Texas A&M men's basketball team will host rivals Texas at 8 p.m. ET on the same day, stirring excitement among fans. The clash marks their first meeting as conference foes since 2012 and the 226th overall encounter between the two teams. Also boasting 12-2 overall records, the Aggies have had success with several high-profile wins but will need to show their mettle against Texas, which enters the game after competing against weaker opponents this season.
Texas A&M has been dubbed as defensive juggernauts, sitting high nationally for their defensive efficiency, and features standout players like Zhuric Phelps, Pharrel Payne, and Wade Taylor IV, who collectively contributed significantly to their present winning streak. The buzz leading up to this game includes fan engagement as University students and alumni are expected to come out to support the program.
While the Longhorns only recently faced tougher competition to start their season, questions loom over their continuous performance, coupled with the steadily improving Aggie offense led by coach Joni Taylor
The games against Ole Miss and Texas not only serve as pivotal moments for both teams but will also heavily impact their respective standings within the SEC, establishing early leverage for the season.