Aggies host East Texas A&M for Fan Appreciation Day on Sunday
Most will agree the best price is "free."
Sunday offers basketball fans free admission.
It should also give Bucky McMillan's Aggies another "free" win.
As non-conference play nears its conclusion, Texas A&M (8-3) hosts East Texas A&M (6-5) at Reed Arena on Sunday afternoon. Tipoff is set for 3 p.m. CT.
All three of the Aggies' losses have come against "power" conference opponents — two at the hands of Big 12 affiliates and the most recent a Dec. 7 defeat to SMU of the ACC.
As a result, A&M's resume still lacks a Quadrant 1 or 2 victory with the SEC slate set to begin on Jan. 3 vs. LSU.
That won't change Sunday against ETAMU or Dec. 29 vs. Prairie View. Instead, the focus will be on the continued growth and strengthening of McMillan's culture and system.
Against their six non-power foes, the Aggies are averaging 104.8 points per game and have eclipsed the century mark four times, including a season-best 120 against Mississippi Valley State.
Overall, their 92.9 scoring average ranks ninth nationally.
Rubén Dominguez, who has been quiet of late, leads a group of five Aggies averaging over 10 points per contest. The Spaniard averages 14.1. Marcus Hill contributes 12.1, while Rylan Griffen is posting 11.6.
The Lions, which are already 1-1 in Southland Conference play, recently gave up 102 points to McNeese in a 36-point loss on Dec. 12. Two of their wins have come against NCCAA teams Arlington Baptist and Dallas Christian.
A&M should comfortably run away from ETAMU in the same manner that the Maroon & White distanced themselves from Northwestern State, Texas Southern, Manhattan, MVSU and Jacksonville.
Of course, holiday hoops haven't always been comfortable in College Station. A 2022 loss to Wofford has not been forgotten.
Except that was under a different head coach. Literally nobody on that staff or roster remains.
Additionally, the current regime requires a non-negotiable tenacity and effort level, regardless of opponent.
A&M's new culture will likely be on display and appreciated during Fan Appreciation Day.
McMillan's approach to "buy" games should provide peace of mind that costs the same amount as a ticket on Sunday.
Free.