Texas A&M basketball is coming off of an unlikely win over the number one team in the country in the Auburn Tigers— the first such win in program history. The Aggies blitzed the Tigers right out of the gate, never letting up the entire game. A double-digit lead for most of the second half ended up being right about what the final margin was, as the Aggies triumphed by 11.
The Texas A&M basketball fans that had packed Reed Arena were ready to storm the court, but Buzz Williams held them off in the final seconds. At first, many thought this was just to avoid the hefty fine that would be levied by the SEC— something that, historically, has not really been that much of a deterrent.
Instead, those who stayed found out that there was a much more meaningful reason that Buzz held back the rushing tide of students. A ceremony after the game was planned— one that was a long time coming— but those watching on the TV broadcast may have missed it.
Texas A&M basketball honors Wade Taylor IV after win over no. 1 Auburn, puts his jersey in the rafters
Wade Taylor IV is one of the most highly decorated Aggie basketball players in recent history. The man is on the verge of becoming the all-time leading scorer in program history, has lifted the Aggies to many victories with his stellar play, and showed up in clutch moment after clutch moment.
It is fitting, then, that this Aggie program and team gave him everything they did after the win. Buzz Williams took center stage to deliver a heartfelt speech to Taylor ahead of the ultimate honor.
FOREVER IN THE RAFTERS 🐐 @wadetaylorIV pic.twitter.com/jhPUL2sqHu
— TexAgs (@TexAgs) March 5, 2025
Taylor became visibly emotional during the speech and especially when his jersey was unfurled. You can see in the video below that he runs over to his family after his teammates celebrate him.
Wade Taylor IV gets his jersey in the rafters of Reed Arena then weeps tears of joy in his family’s arms: pic.twitter.com/mdzztjG8ed
— Tony Catalina (@Tony_Catalina) March 5, 2025
I've written before about how Taylor is in the conversation for the best Texas A&M basketball player of all time. Many pointed out that they want to see a great performance from him in March before they are ready to give him that designation. Whether or not he accomplishes that in the NCAA tournament, though, this is an honor that can now never be stripped away from him. Congratulations, Wade— it's hard to think of anyone more deserving.