Texas A&M could be eyeing an SEC rival’s coach for its men’s basketball head coaching vacancy following Buzz Williams’ move to Maryland. Jeff Goodman of The Field of 68 reports that Ole Miss’ Chris Beard is expected to be a top candidate in the Aggies’ search.
While it’s uncertain if Beard will take the job, he is currently establishing a strong program with the Rebels. However, the opportunity to return to Texas might be appealing, given his past success at Texas Tech and Texas.
In two seasons at Ole Miss, Chris Beard has compiled a 44-24 record. During the 2024-25 season, he led the Rebels to their first NCAA Tournament appearance under his leadership, guiding them to the Sweet 16 before falling to Michigan State.
Hiring Chris Beard would be a strategic move for Texas A&M, as it would not only bring in a proven coach to College Station but also deal a blow to a conference rival. It’s a move that makes a lot of sense, though it remains uncertain whether they can secure him.
As for Buzz Williams, he opted to leave Texas A&M after Kevin Willard’s departure from Maryland to Villanova. This created an opening at Maryland, and Williams decided to take the opportunity to lead the Terrapins’ men’s basketball program in the Big Ten.
Buzz Williams has prior experience on the East Coast, having coached at Virginia Tech from 2014 to 2019. Now, he’ll have the opportunity to lead in another power conference. Under Williams, Texas A&M has enjoyed significant success, making the Round of 32 in the NCAA Tournament for two consecutive years, including the 2024-25 season.
Additionally, the Aggies have reached the NCAA Tournament in three straight seasons, after last making the Big Dance in 2018. It took Williams some time to build the program, but once he got it going, the Aggies became a highly competitive team.
Buzz Williams’ success at Texas A&M was truly highlighted over the past two seasons, where the Aggies posted records of 21-15 and 23-11. He played a key role in building a strong, cohesive team. Now, he will look to replicate that success at Maryland, while Texas A&M seeks a new direction.
Could that new direction involve Chris Beard? It’s still uncertain, but it would certainly be a major twist in the coaching carousel. As the search continues, all eyes will be on who ultimately takes the reins in College Station.
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