Texas A&M Basketball: 2019-20 season preview for Aggies

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - JANUARY 15: Head coach Buzz Williams of the Virginia Tech Hokies watches a play develop in the first half during a game against the Virginia Cavaliers at John Paul Jones Arena on January 15, 2019 in Charlottesville, Virginia. (Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images) /

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NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – FEBRUARY 04: Head coach Billy Kennedy of the Texas A&M Aggies and his bench reacts during the final moments of the second half of a 77-60 Vanderbilt upset of Texas A&M at Memorial Gym on February 4, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images) /

The Aggies’ bench will likely be inexperienced

The Texas A&M rotation could be interesting as most of the returning players that started a big chunk of games all recognize as guards with 6’9 senior Josh Nebo being the most productive returning forward, has averaged eight points and five rebounds last season, but as a sophomore he was more of a force with 12 points and eight boards.

If the Aggies do go with a four-guard lineup, Flagg would likely be deployed at a forward spot with the Chandler playing a “small” 3 at 6’4. The backcourt would then be occupied by Mitchell and Starks unless Williams feels the JuCo transfer Jackson is ready to play right away.

The bench is where things get even more interesting as no returning player averaged a point last season, meaning that the 35th nationally ranked recruiting class could get a large portion of the bench minutes. Aku would likely be the first big man off the bench, with Miller and Simmons next in line as forwards. Gordon and McNeilly should be able to provide some minutes when the starters need a blow.

The Aggies could be caught between a rock and a hard place next season with their rotation in a league as tough as the SEC. If they rely heavily on their starters, fatigue could be an issue as the year goes on, but needing key contributions from freshmen could be a risky proposition.