With this win, Texas A&M improved their record to 12-2, marking their first conference win of the season and extending their winning streak to eight games. This matchup was particularly noteworthy as it was the first time these teams faced each other on campus since 2012.
The first half ended with the score tied, but the Aggies swiftly took control after halftime, launching a 15-2 run that pushed their lead to 52-39 just over 14 minutes into the game. Phelps was instrumental during this stretch, scoring six points and making a crucial steal.
Texas, with a record of 11-3 and debuting in the SEC, fought back and managed to trim the deficit to 57-52 following a 13-5 scoring run. However, Texas A&M quickly responded with an 11-3 surge, including a pivotal three-pointer from Hayden Hefner, extending the lead to 68-55 with under five minutes remaining in the contest.
Tramon Mark led the Longhorns with 14 points as they adjusted to their new conference affiliation after spending the last 28 seasons in the Big 12.
Takeaways
For Texas, the transition to the rigors of the Southeastern Conference will be challenging, as their upcoming schedule includes four consecutive games against top 15 ranked teams, with three of them in the top 10.
On the Texas A&M side, strong defensive capabilities remain a hallmark of Coach Buzz Williams’ strategy. The Aggies have succeeded in keeping opponents under 70 points for the seventh consecutive game.
Key Moment
The decisive factor was Texas A&M’s explosive run at the start of the second half during which Texas struggled, missing eight shots in quick succession.
Key Stat
Despite their overall success, the Aggies managed to connect on only 2 of their 19 attempts from beyond the arc.
Up Next
Texas A&M will travel to face No. 12 Oklahoma on Wednesday evening, while Texas will host No. 2 Auburn on Tuesday night.
