Buzz Williams previews the impact of the Texas A&M transfers

Texas A&M Aggies men’s basketball head coach Buzz Williams spoke to reporters at SEC Media Days in Birmingham, AL. Tuesday and as always he had his unique way with words.

Whether he was comparing Texas A&M guard Wade Taylor IV to Michael Jackson or joking with the media from the podium, Williams continues to be one of the most interesting voices among SEC coaches. However, it was his clearly worded comments about Texas A&M’s transfer additions that perhaps stood out the most.

The Aggies brought Zhuric Phelps from SMU, Pharrel Payne from Minnesota and CJ Wilcher from Nebraska from the portal this offseason, adding experience to an already deep roster expected to compete in the SEC. Williams said all three transfers address major areas of need and that they all have a role intended for them.

“I think the staff has done a really good job of researching what our team needs,” Williams said. “Zhuric Phelps, Pharrel Payne and CJ Wilcher address the things we need most. All three will play a role on our team.”

Last season at SMU, Phelps averaged 14.8 points, a career-high 4.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game while starting 32 of 33 games for the Mustangs. Meanwhile, Payne averaged 10.0 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 32 appearances for Minnesota. Wilcher brings four years of college experience to College Station. He began his career at Xavier before playing the last three seasons at Nebraska. He averaged 7.7 points in 33 games and two starts last year.

“We tried to balance the transfers and the young guys,” Williams said. “It’s a juggling act and I don’t think there’s an exact science. The older you are relative to your body and abilities is a competitive advantage.”

No. 13 Texas A&M will open the regular season on Monday, Nov. 4 at UCF.