|
We continue our recruit and return series with the Texas A&M Aggies, whose season ended in the Sweet 16 with a loss to Michigan. A look at what the 2018-19 season could hold: Possible 2018-19 starting five
G: TJ Starks
G: Admon Gilder
G: Savion Flagg
F: Josh Nebo
F: Tyler Davis Who is lost: Robert Williams surprised many by coming back in 2017-18, despite being a projected lottery pick, but this time around the athletic forward will be headed to the pros. The Aggies also lose senior Tonny Trocha-Morelos, a key contributor who was part of a deep frontcourt rotation. Graduate transfer point guard Duane Wilson will also depart. The key question rests on the shoulders of Davis, a talented big man who will mull whether to enter the draft or return for his senior season. That could go either way. DJ Hogg, who is currently No. 84 in ESPN's top 100 NBA draft prospects, is another to keep an eye on.  Who is added: Currently, the Aggies only have one signee in the class: ESPN 100 guard Antwaan Jones. A strong, 6-foot-6 wing, Jones can attack the rim and has good range. Billy Kennedy will almost certainly add a big man to the class in the spring period. Nebo, a 6-9 forward who transferred into the program before the 2017-18 season, will be eligible to play in 2018-19. John Walker III, a late signee in the 2017 class, will join the lineup after redshirting this season.
What it means for next season: There are still quite a few unanswered questions, so the picture remains unclear. Gilder (assuming he doesn't test the draft waters) and Starks returning for the Aggies is big. Gilder was a major piece to the Aggies' success over the course of the season and Starks came on strong late. Davis' draft decision and how Kennedy closes out the recruiting class will play major roles in how things shape up for the Aggies next season. If Davis were to return, it would be a boost for this squad. Hogg's future is also unknown. He has pro potential and could probably benefit from another college season, but also was suspended twice for violating team rules in 2017-18. If Hogg left, Flagg -- who showed flashes of his potential as a freshman -- would likely step into the lineup in his place. Trending: Neutral. Making it to the tournament twice in the past three seasons is a good step for the program, but whether the Aggies can make it three of four will depend on how some of these key factors play out in the coming months.
|
