Sports

Texas A&M Basketball Clinches Thrilling 69-61 Victory Over Rival Arkansas Behind Taylor’s 18 Points

Texas A&M Basketball Clinches Thrilling 69-61 Victory Over Rival Arkansas Behind Taylor’s 18 Points
Texas A&M Basketball
Arkansas Razorbacks
SEC Standings

Texas A&M basketball solidified its top-10 ranking with a gritty 69-61 victory over the Arkansas Razorbacks at Reed Arena on Saturday. Wade Taylor IV spearheaded the Aggies’ offense with 18 points, including a momentum-shifting three-pointer during a decisive 9-0 run late in the second half. The win extends Texas A&M’s streak to five games, boosting their SEC record to 9-3.

With the score tied at 50-50 near the 10-minute mark, Taylor ignited the crowd with a step-back three-pointer that sparked Texas A&M’s game-defining surge. Andersson Garcia contributed four points during the critical stretch, while Zhuric Phelps dominated the boards with nine rebounds. Our defense created opportunities, and we capitalized when it mattered, head coach Buzz Williams later noted in postgame comments.

The Aggies’ physicality overwhelmed Arkansas, as evidenced by these key stats:

  • 34-22 advantage in paint scoring
  • 22 points off 17 Razorback turnovers
  • 12-1 home record this season

Arkansas’ Karter Knox managed 17 points but struggled alongside 7-foot-2 standout Zvonimir Ivisic, who was held to 13 points after explosive 52-point performances in prior games. The Razorbacks’ seventh loss in 10 road matchups raises concerns about their NCAA Tournament viability.

Texas A&M basketball now faces a pivotal Tuesday road test against No. 22 Mississippi State, while Arkansas must regroup quickly before hosting top-ranked Auburn. With March Madness approaching, the Aggies’ ability to sustain second-half intensity could define their postseason trajectory.