Texas A&M looks to move into the Round of 32, but the Ivy League champs provide an interesting challenge for the Aggies.
DENVER, Colorado — As the 2025 NCAA Tournament gets underway, Texas A&M (22-10) and Yale (22-7) gear up for a compelling first-round showdown at Ball Arena in Denver. The matchup is headlined by contrasting styles—A&M’s rugged, defensive-focused play against Yale’s efficient, perimeter-shooting attack. The Aggies are 7.5 point favorites heading into the game.
Texas A&M has proven they can beat anyone on any given day, as evident when they took down No. 1 Auburn just a few weeks ago. They have the ability to take over any game when they can play their style of basketball; aggressive, bully-ball in the paint. The Aggies are No. 1 in the nation in offensive rebounding and like to control tempo in transition. A&M’s ability to dominate the paint and control the glass will be crucial if they want to beat Yale. Look for the Aggies to use their depth and size to push the pace and force Yale into uncomfortable situations on both ends of the floor. Defensively, A&M is going to have extend to the perimeter to combat the Yale three-point shooting. If the Aggies let the Bulldogs get in a rhythm shooting the basketball, the Ivy League champs may shoot them out of the gym.
Yale thrives on ball movement and perimeter shooting, evident in their dominance in the Ivy League (15-1). The Bulldogs excel when they control tempo and create open three-point opportunities for themselves. Defensively, they’re disciplined on the boards, often limiting opponents to a single shot per possession. However, their rebounding advantage could be challenged by Texas A&M’s superior size and physicality. To pull off the upset, Yale will need to stay hot from beyond the arc and avoid getting drawn into a battle in the paint. If they can handle the Aggies’ pressure and find quality outside looks, the Bulldogs could make things interesting.
Tip off is set for 6:25 CST tonight from Ball Arena in Denver. The game will be broadcasted on TBS.
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