This column by Joseph Goodman is a glowing endorsement of Bucky McMillan’s rise to prominence and his new role as head coach at Texas A&M, emphasizing both McMillan’s unique coaching style and the bold nature of his career moves. Here’s a breakdown of the key points and some deeper analysis:
1. Narrative of a Meteoric Rise
Goodman paints McMillan as a rising star who has rocketed from high school coaching to the pinnacle of college basketball in just five years. The arc is presented as a near-inevitable outcome of McMillan’s personality and skillset, making him a compelling figure in the evolving landscape of the SEC.
Analysis:
This narrative is powerful because it appeals to the classic underdog-to-powerhouse storyline, and Goodman clearly positions himself as someone who’s been on the “Bucky Ball” bandwagon from the beginning. This adds credibility and a personal stake to his coverage.
2. “Bucky Ball” as a Disruptive Force
The column highlights McMillan’s trademark high-pressure, high-tempo style—full-court press, analytics, relentless pace—and suggests it could force the SEC to adapt.
Analysis:
This is where Goodman’s excitement shines. He’s not just reporting; he’s forecasting a philosophical shift in how basketball might be played in the SEC. Whether this proves true depends heavily on personnel and buy-in from players, but the idea that McMillan could be a tactical innovator in a league full of traditional powerhouses is intriguing.
3. Perfect Cultural Fit for Texas A&M
Goodman emphasizes how McMillan’s personality—“exacting, meticulous, relentless, loyal, and brilliant”—aligns with A&M’s culture.
Analysis:
This is important in modern college athletics where identity and brand are everything. A&M is unique, and Goodman seems to believe that McMillan isn’t just a tactical fit, but a cultural one as well. This could help with recruiting and fan engagement.
4. Timing and the New Era of College Athletics
The article references the upcoming changes from House v. NCAA and revenue-sharing, placing McMillan’s hire in the broader context of a transformative moment in college sports.
Analysis:
This angle is key. McMillan isn’t just taking over a program—he’s doing it as the entire foundation of college athletics shifts. If he can leverage NIL and adapt to the new financial realities of the sport, his innovative mindset could be even more valuable.
5. Recruitment Watch: Yaxel Lendeborg
Goodman teases a potential recruiting win with transfer Yaxel Lendeborg, signaling that McMillan could make an immediate splash.
Analysis:
This sort of rumor/speculation is typical of sports columns, but it also serves to build anticipation and set expectations. If McMillan lands Lendeborg, it would instantly validate the hire and prove Texas A&M is serious about competing at the top.
6. The SEC Gauntlet
The list of opposing coaches reads like a roll call of basketball royalty, suggesting McMillan is diving into the deepest waters in college hoops.
Analysis:
This is a reality check. Goodman’s optimism is tempered with the acknowledgment that the SEC is no joke. McMillan’s success will depend not just on style or innovation, but also his ability to recruit, develop, and win in a brutal competitive environment.
Bottom Line
Joseph Goodman’s column is a mix of admiration, analysis, and prophecy. He believes in McMillan, believes “Bucky Ball” is ready for primetime, and thinks Texas A&M could be the perfect launchpad for something special. The pressure is real, the competition is fierce, but the opportunity is massive.
