Wade Taylor IV of Texas A&M Applauds Pharrel Payne’s “Phenomenal” Impact

In a season where Texas A&M basketball has weathered its share of adversity and inconsistencies, a new spark has emerged in the form of transfer forward Pharrel Payne. The 6’9” sophomore, who joined the Aggies from Minnesota, has quickly become a force in the paint, offering a level of toughness and production that had been missing from Buzz Williams’ lineup.

Following a hard-fought victory against LSU, star guard Wade Taylor IV took time in his postgame comments to praise his teammate’s contributions, calling Payne’s impact on the team “phenomenal” and crediting him with bringing energy, physicality, and a winning mentality to the Aggies’ frontcourt.

“Pharrel has been phenomenal, man,” Taylor said, beaming. “He came in ready to work, bought into our system, and he’s been doing everything we need—scoring, rebounding, defending. You can’t ask for more than that.”

Filling a Critical Void

Coming into the 2024-25 season, Texas A&M faced questions about who would fill the role vacated by Julius Marble and Andersson Garcia, both of whom were key contributors in the frontcourt. While Henry Coleman III remained as the anchor, the Aggies needed someone who could complement him, especially against the towering and athletic big men of the SEC.

Enter Pharrel Payne.

During his freshman year at Minnesota, Payne showed flashes of brilliance, averaging 8.2 points and 5.1 rebounds per game while shooting over 60% from the field. His size, athleticism, and high motor drew the attention of several high-major programs once he entered the transfer portal. Ultimately, he chose Texas A&M, citing the coaching staff’s trust in his development and the opportunity to compete in one of the toughest conferences in the country.

“I wanted to challenge myself,” Payne said during his introductory press conference. “The SEC is no joke, and I knew Coach Williams and this staff would push me to be my best.”

Early Impact on Both Ends

Payne’s arrival didn’t disappoint. From the outset of the season, he established himself as a dependable force inside, quickly earning a spot in the starting lineup. His numbers—10.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game through the first 20 contests—speak volumes, but it’s his effort and intangibles that have earned him the respect of teammates and fans alike.

“He brings that edge,” Taylor said. “He’s not afraid to get physical, to battle inside, to do the dirty work. That rubs off on all of us.”

Against ranked opponents, Payne has elevated his game. In a recent showdown against then-No. 12 Kentucky, Payne notched a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds, holding his own against a taller, more experienced front line. His ability to finish around the rim and contest shots without fouling has made him invaluable in close games, especially when Texas A&M’s offense sputters.

“He gives us second chances with his rebounding, and he gives our guards confidence knowing he’s got our back on defense,” Williams said.

Developing Chemistry with Taylor

One of the most exciting developments for the Aggies has been the budding on-court chemistry between Payne and Wade Taylor IV. The junior guard and SEC Preseason Player of the Year has thrived in pick-and-roll situations with Payne, often finding him on lobs or quick slips to the basket.

“We’ve been working on that since summer,” Taylor said. “Pharrel’s a great screener, and he’s got soft hands. I trust him to finish every time I get him the ball.”

Their connection has opened up space for the Aggies’ offense, which often struggled last season with spacing and shot creation. With Payne drawing attention inside, Taylor has found more room to operate from the perimeter, and the offensive balance has kept opponents guessing.

Defensive Anchor

While Payne’s offensive production has been a welcome boost, it’s his defense that’s truly turned heads. Averaging 1.5 blocks and altering countless more shots per game, Payne has quickly earned a reputation as one of the SEC’s most disruptive interior defenders.

“He’s got great timing, and he’s not just chasing blocks—he’s positioning himself smartly, helping, rotating,” assistant coach Steve Roccaforte noted. “That’s the sign of a mature defender.”

Texas A&M has long prided itself on defense under Williams, but Payne’s presence has taken it to another level. His ability to switch onto guards, hedge screens, and recover has allowed the Aggies to be more aggressive on the perimeter, knowing they have a shot-blocking presence behind them.

“We can press up more, take some risks,” Taylor said. “We know Pharrel’s back there to clean things up if needed.”

Leadership by Example

Though only a sophomore, Payne has emerged as a leader by example. His relentless work ethic in practice has become a model for younger players, and his willingness to do the little things—diving for loose balls, setting hard screens, battling for rebounds—has endeared him to the coaching staff.

“He’s not a big talker,” Williams said. “But he’s a doer. He leads with his effort, with his toughness. Every team needs a guy like that.”

Payne credits his mindset to his upbringing and his time at Minnesota, where he had to fight for minutes and prove himself in a competitive environment.

“I’ve always had a chip on my shoulder,” Payne said. “Nothing’s been handed to me. I just try to bring that every night.”

The Road Ahead

With SEC play heating up and March looming, Payne’s continued growth will be critical to the Aggies’ success. As of mid-season, Texas A&M finds itself in the thick of the SEC standings, needing every win to solidify its NCAA Tournament resume. Payne’s ability to stay consistent, especially against elite competition, will determine whether the Aggies can make a meaningful run.

“We believe in each other,” Taylor said. “And with Pharrel in that paint, we feel like we can beat anybody.”

Opponents have taken notice as well. In scouting reports, Payne is increasingly seen as a player who can tilt the game on both ends—forcing coaches to adjust schemes and devote extra attention to stopping him.

“Game plan changes when he’s on the floor,” LSU head coach Matt McMahon noted after their loss to the Aggies. “He’s physical, he’s smart, and he’s always around the ball. Hard to prepare for that.”

NBA Attention

As Payne’s stock rises, so too does the attention from professional scouts. His size, defensive instincts, and efficient scoring around the rim make him an intriguing prospect. While he remains focused on the task at hand in College Station, there’s growing buzz about his long-term potential.

“He’s got all the tools,” one NBA scout said anonymously. “If he continues to develop his footwork and adds a reliable mid-range shot, he could be a serious prospect.”

For now, Payne is staying grounded.

“My focus is on helping this team win,” Payne said. “Everything else will take care of itself.”