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Texas A&M and Missouri Seek Crucial Wins for Tournament Hope

2/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Texas A&M University men's basketball team must end its four-game skid this week as it hosts Ole Miss and Oklahoma, with both games affecting its NCAA Tournament chances.
Texas A&M is 17-8, 43rd in the NET, and projected to be a 9.43 seed.
Missouri Tigers men's basketball team faces a stretch starting with No. 19 Vanderbilt, and winning two of the next three could bolster its at-large bid despite injuries.

History

Historical Context

The inaugural NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament began on March 17, 1939, featuring eight teams in a single-elimination format. Oregon, coached by Howard Hobson, won the championship on March 27, defeating Ohio State 46–33. This tournament laid the foundation for college basketball's growth, with the NCAA expanding to over 350 member schools, including Texas A&M and Missouri, reflecting the sport's increasing significance in American culture.

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Story summary

Texas A&M University men's basketball team must end its four-game skid this week as it hosts Ole Miss and Oklahoma, with both games affecting its NCAA Tournament chances.
Texas A&M is 17-8, 43rd in the NET, and projected to be a 9.43 seed.
Missouri Tigers men's basketball team faces a stretch starting with No. 19 Vanderbilt, and winning two of the next three could bolster its at-large bid despite injuries.

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