Bucky McMillan addresses preseason progress amid roster turnover
Texas A&M men’s basketball head coach Bucky McMillan addressed reporters on Thursday afternoon at the Cox-McFerrin Center to discuss the Aggies’ preseason progress, roster construction, and player development heading into the campaign, 247sports.com reported. Entering his second season at the helm, McMillan outlined the team’s evolution following an offseason of significant roster turnover, balancing veteran returners with high-ceiling newcomers.
While national analysts have widely projected the Aggies to finish in the bottom half of the SEC, matching preseason expectations from McMillan’s debut year, the coaching staff maintains confidence in the squad’s upgraded physical profile and depth. McMillan believes the current roster is more physical, with an increase in slashing, finishing at the rim, and dunks, as well as more necessary individual playmaking. The team opens the season against Alabama State on Tuesday, November 3, aggieswire.usatoday.com reported.
Jalen Shelley’s Position And Defensive Rebounding In The SEC
A central focus of McMillan’s remarks centered on the addition of Dallas native Jalen Shelley, a 6-foot-9, long, and highly skilled forward. McMillan noted that the coaching staff prioritized adding length without sacrificing floor spacing or perimeter skill. He described Shelley as a defender who sees the game well and can play both point guard and the four position, though he is currently managing a minor injury.
McMillan contrasted Shelley’s skill set with traditional American developmental tracks for tall prospects, pointing out that European youth systems frequently avoid restricting tall players to the low block.
Jordan Pope and PJ Haggarty join backcourt after eligibility hurdles
The Aggies managed a difficult offseason shaped by high-stakes personnel adjustments and eligibility challenges. Former G League guard Bryson Warren was deemed ineligible and entered the transfer portal, according to aggieswire.usatoday.com. In response, McMillan added Texas transfer guard Jordan Pope to anchor the backcourt alongside Kansas State transfer guard PJ Haggarty, who averaged nearly 24 points per contest last season. Of Pope, McMillan said, “I’ve seen him make enough shots to know he can help us,” adding that “Pope really wants to win.”
Meanwhile, senior guard Rylan Griffen, who shot 40% from beyond the arc and averaged 8.6 points per game for Texas A&M last season, has re-enrolled but awaits a preliminary injunction hearing scheduled for Monday to determine his eligibility for the fall. McMillan also addressed the economic realities of modern roster building via the transfer portal, emphasizing that balancing price points and positional needs is essential to responsible team construction.
Common Questions About The Texas A&M Basketball Preseason
When does Texas A&M play its season opener?
The Aggies open the season against Alabama State on Tuesday, November 3, at home.
What eligibility status is Rylan Griffen facing?
Senior guard Rylan Griffen re-enrolled with the program and awaits a preliminary injunction hearing on Monday to determine his eligibility to play this fall.
Who are the notable newcomers joining the backcourt rotation?
The Aggies added Texas transfer guard Jordan Pope and former Kansas State guard PJ Haggarty, who averaged nearly 24 points per game last season.
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