Texas A&M men's basketball continued its strong start to the 2026-27 season Friday night, defeating Northern Kentucky 104-67 at Reed Arena with an efficient offense and relentless defensive pressure.
The Aggies (2-0) had six players score in double figures, led by Jordan Pope's 18 points. Pope shot 7-of-9 from the field, including three 3-pointers, setting the tone early as Texas A&M opened the game on an 11-0 run and never trailed.
After defeating Alabama State 97-66 in the season opener, head coach Bucky McMillan's team delivered another convincing performance. Texas A&M shot 61.1% from the field in the first half, building a 52-32 halftime lead before eventually stretching it to 40 points.
Mackenzie Mgbako contributed 14 points, seven rebounds
and four assists, delivering a strong all-around performance while continuing to establish himself as a key contributor for the Aggies. Jalen Shelley added 13 points and seven rebounds, while Tyshawn Archie and Cade Phillips finished with 12 points apiece.
The Aggies also delivered another disruptive defensive performance, forcing 23 turnovers, recording 15 steals and blocking nine shots. Texas A&M outscored Northern Kentucky 35-6 in points off turnovers while holding the Norse to 34.5% shooting.
Another notable development was the return of Rylan Griffen, who made his season debut after receiving a temporary restraining order related to his eligibility. Griffen finished with eight points, two rebounds, and two assists in 16 minutes.
The performance addressed several questions entering the matchup, particularly whether the Aggies could maintain their defensive intensity and offensive balance against Northern Kentucky.
Texas A&M key players of the game
- Jordan Pope (G): 18 points, two assists and three 3-pointers. Shot 7-of-9 from the field and provided an efficient scoring presence from the opening minutes.
- Mackenzie Mgbako (F): 14 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Delivered an impressive all-around performance while helping Texas A&M control the offensive tempo.
- Cade Phillips (F): 12 points, six rebounds and four blocks. Established himself as a defensive presence around the basket while contributing offensively.
- Jalen Shelley (F): 13 points and seven rebounds. Continued his productive start after recording a double-double in the season opener.
Texas A&M's ability to maintain its offensive pace while creating turnovers remains an encouraging sign for McMillan's revamped roster. The Aggies have scored at least 97 points in both games while forcing a combined 48 turnovers.
Texas A&M (2-0) returns to Reed Arena Monday, Nov. 9, to face Louisiana-Monroe.
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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M basketball cruises past Northern Kentucky, 104-67
