Texas A&M (20-14, 9-9 SEC) did what it had to do this week during the SEC Tournament, winning two games, including a critical victory over the talented Kentucky Wildcats on Friday night, sweeping the season series while earning a seventh Quad 1 win the process.
On paper, the Aggies should be in the NCAA Tournament based on their impressive resume after dealing with plenty of adversity, ranging from veteran guard Tyrece Radford’s early-season injury issues to senior forward Julius Marble’s absence due to an unforeseen internal issue that hindered the front court’s depth.
However, despite his shooting woes last month, star junior guard Wade Taylor IV has been spectacular, averaging nearly 19 points per game while scoring 62 points in A&M’s last two games, including 12 3-pointers. Adding another dimension to the offense, junior guard Manny Obaseki has been a revelation after barely seeing the court, scoring 106 points in the last five games while earning a much-deserved starting spot.
With all that said, how secure are the Aggie’s chances of earning a tournament bid? Well, thanks to GigEm247’s Carter Karels, Texas A&M’s NET Ranking only dropped three spots from 42nd to 45th, holding a 13-10 Quad 1 & Quad 2 record, and most importantly, the Aggies’ once 5th Quad 3 loss to Memphis back in December has changed back to a Quad 2 loss.
While some believe the selection committee has already made up its mind, leaving a team with seven Quad 1 wins, only 10 teams have more than the Maroon & White.
Oh, and for what it’s worth, Texas A&M is listed as the first team in the “First Four Byes” in Joe Lunardi’s final bracket.
Happy Saint Bracket's Day. pic.twitter.com/MZrx8yvWB8
— Joe Lunardi (@ESPNLunardi) March 17, 2024
Selection Sunday will take place at 5:00 p.m. CT. and will air on CBS
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