It was not pretty, but Texas A&M (15-4, 4-2 SEC) steals a win on the road against Ole Miss (15-4, 4-2 SEC) with Pharrel Payne and Manny Obaseki stepping up big in the come from behind victory. Texas A&M now has an impressive six Quad 1 wins one the year.
Following two consecutive conference losses, the team celebrates back-to-back victories, marking their first ranked win since the start of SEC play. In contrast to earlier matches, the officials allowed both teams to battle it out, resulting in a gritty, old-school style of play, with each team shooting under 40% throughout the game.
This was another contest where the depth and experience of being in high-pressure situations proved to be the key to this win. With an under-the-weather Zhuric Phelps and Wade Taylor having one of their worst games with the Aggies, they needed help from everyone. That’s where Payne and Obaseki shined.
Payne had yet another impressive performance, scoring 10 points on 4-6 shooting. Obaseki was named MVP after contributing 12 points with 4 of 7 shooting, highlighted by a game-winning three-pointer, assisted by Phelps, with only 14 seconds left—this was A&M’s sole lead in the match.
Ultimately, the Aggies need to improve their performance in critical moments. However, they managed to blend the challenges and successes tonight, earning another conference victory.
GAME NOTES:
- Payne and Obaseki combined for 22 points and 9 rebounds
- Texas A&M outrebounded Ole Miss 48-31
- 38.7% FG / 28.6% 3PT / 77.8% FT
Texas A&M will stay on the road when they travel to Austin to face Texas on Jan. 25 at 1:30p.m. CST. The game can be watched on ESPN2.
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