Battle In The Bay: FSU And Texas A&M Face Off In Tampa Showdown

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Battle In The Bay: FSU And Texas A&M Face Off In Tampa Showdown

FSU and Texas A&M to Renew Rivalry in Nov. 28 Matchup at Benchmark International Arena

Cam Miles (FSU Basketball, FB)
Cam Miles (FSU Basketball, FB)

TAMPA, Fla. – College basketball fans in the Tampa Bay area are in for a treat as two powerhouse programs, the Florida State Seminoles and the Texas A&M Aggies, are set to clash in “The Battle in the Bay.” The marquee non-conference matchup, organized by Russ Potts Productions, Inc. (RPPI), will take place at Benchmark International Arena on Friday, November 28, at 7:00 p.m.

The event will bring together the ACC’s FSU and the SEC’s Texas A&M for a showdown that promises an electric atmosphere. Tickets for the game go on sale Friday, September 12, at 10:00 a.m.

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The game will be an early-season test for both teams, which are each led by new head coaches. The Seminoles, under the direction of first-year coach Luke Loucks, will take on the Aggies, who are now coached by Bucky McMillan.

“Every game we play against a quality opponent helps us grow and become a better basketball team,” said Coach Loucks. “Playing Texas A&M is great for us in so many ways… making this matchup a powerful test for us.”

Loucks also highlighted the opportunity to connect with the local community, stating that playing in Tampa allows the team to “showcase our team in one of Florida’s largest cities, home to a vibrant community of Seminole supporters.”

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On the other side of the court, Coach Bucky McMillan is leading a re-tooled Aggies roster that features 12 Division I transfers. McMillan, who previously led the Samford Bulldogs to three consecutive Southern Conference Championships, is looking forward to the challenge.

Chris McDermott, Texas A&M
Chris McDermott, Texas A&M Basketball

“I have great respect for their athletic accomplishments and am excited to be starting this series,” McMillan said.

The last time these two teams met was in the 2011 NCAA Tournament, where FSU secured a close 57-50 victory. Fourteen years later, this neutral-site game is expected to be another thrilling chapter in the rivalry.

“This event will help our community partners prepare so that we’re ready to put our best foot forward in March,” Rob Higgins, Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission said, referring to the upcoming NCAA Men’s March Madness tournament returning to the area.

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