Texas A&M’s unranked team achieved a surprising upset victory over the top-ranked SEC powerhouse on Tuesday. The Aggies seized control early in the game and never relinquished it, securing an impressive 11-point win. Zhuric Phelps delivered a standout performance off the bench, leading the team with 19 points, while Wade Taylor IV contributed 16 points, and Andersson Garcia recorded a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Dominating the glass, Texas A&M out-rebounded Auburn by an impressive margin of 16, with 24 offensive rebounds leading to 29 crucial second-chance points.
Tahaad Pettiford led the Tigers in scoring with 19 points, showcasing sharp shooting from beyond the arc by converting 6-of-10 three-point attempts. Chad Baker-Mazara added 15 points, and Miles Kelly chipped in with 12 points, but they were the only Auburn players to reach double figures. Johni Broome, a strong candidate for Player of the Year alongside Duke’s Cooper Flagg, was limited to just eight points and seven rebounds in the game.
Although the loss was disappointing for Bruce Pearl’s Tigers, they remain in a favorable position as they approach their regular-season finale. Having already clinched the SEC title, Auburn is poised to secure a top seed in the upcoming NCAA tournament, boasting an impressive 16 Quad 1 wins this season, six more than any other team in the nation.
However, a potential stumbling block lies ahead for Auburn in the form of a rematch against Alabama, their in-state rivals, on Saturday. A loss in this crucial matchup could shake things up heading into the SEC tournament at Bridgestone Arena. Despite their stellar season, a defeat to Alabama could raise questions about Auburn’s previously unshakeable dominance.
On the other hand, for Texas A&M, the victory was a significant boost at a critical juncture. The Aggies capitalized on the opportunity to turn their season around in the final week, displaying resilience and determination in securing a notable win when it mattered most.
