In a move that surprised many in the college basketball world, Samford head coach Bucky McMillan publicly criticized Texas A&M’s starting roster, citing what he described as a “lack of grit, discipline, and basketball IQ.”
McMillan, known for his fast-paced “Bucky Ball” style and player-first mentality, typically avoids the spotlight when it comes to critiquing opponents. But during a recent media availability following a non-conference matchup, McMillan didn’t hold back when asked about Texas A&M’s lineup.
“I’m not trying to stir anything up,” McMillan began. “But when you look at a program with the resources and talent pool of Texas A&M, you expect smarter rotations, better floor spacing, and more defensive toughness. I just didn’t see that from their starting five.”
Though he didn’t name players specifically, McMillan’s remarks implied that the Aggies’ performance fell short of what he considers fundamental basketball. He pointed to questionable shot selection, poor transition defense, and a seeming disconnect between players and coaching directives.
“You can have all the athleticism in the world,” McMillan added, “but if you don’t value possessions or communicate on the floor, you’re not going to win meaningful games — especially in March.”
The comments quickly went viral, sparking mixed reactions. Some fans praised McMillan for his honesty and passion for the game, while others felt the critique was out of place, especially given Texas A&M’s higher national profile and recruiting power.
Texas A&M head coach Buzz Williams has yet to respond publicly, but sources close to the program indicate that McMillan’s comments didn’t sit well within the Aggies’ camp.
Whether McMillan’s critique was a calculated move or simply an emotional reaction remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure — he’s added extra fire to any future matchup between his squad and the Aggies. D
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