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SEC Scheduling Crisis: A Growing Challenge

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, January 12th 2026 at 12:08 GMT by Sporting News

The Scheduling Conundrum: A Common SEC Struggle

A central theme of Schaefer's discussion revolved around the escalating challenges of constructing a competitive non-conference schedule. The rise of women's basketball's popularity has inadvertently created a bottleneck, as SEC teams compete intensely for available games. "It's really hard to schedule," Schaefer emphasized. "That's really, really hard." The problem, he explained, stems from the prevalent desire among programs to secure high-profile matchups. While these games can provide a boost in national visibility, they often come at a significant cost to a team's NCAA tournament resume.

According to Schaefer, the current environment makes it difficult for programs outside the perennial powerhouses to find suitable opponents. To build a compelling case for tournament selection, teams need a balance of quality wins and manageable losses. Scheduling exclusively against top-ranked teams can significantly damage a team's chances, regardless of eventual performance. This predicament is a widespread issue across the SEC, highlighting the need for potentially innovative scheduling solutions to ensure equitable opportunities for all member institutions. Some proposals being discussed at the conference level include a centralized scheduling committee and exploring partnerships with programs outside the SEC footprint.

Recruiting: More Than Just Talent - It's About Fit

Beyond scheduling hurdles, Schaefer underscored the critical importance of recruiting in the Aggies' quest to reclaim their position among the SEC elite. However, his approach to recruiting goes beyond simply identifying and acquiring talented players. Schaefer's philosophy prioritizes character and cultural alignment. "You recruit to get the right people," he stated. "You recruit to get people who are good players, but more importantly, you get people who fit your program. You get people who embrace our culture. And it's all about the team, not any individual."

This emphasis on finding players who exemplify the program's values signifies a commitment to building a sustainable and cohesive team dynamic. Simply assembling a roster of highly-rated recruits can often lead to internal conflict and a lack of team chemistry. Schaefer's strategy is geared towards fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where individual aspirations are balanced with collective goals. Texas A&M recently landed a top-five recruiting class for the 2027 season, which reflects the program's success in attracting athletes who align with Schaefer's vision.

Witnessing the Explosive Growth of Women's Basketball

Schaefer's perspective extends beyond the immediate concerns of his program to encompass a broader appreciation for the overall growth of women's basketball. He expressed genuine excitement at the sport's expanding reach and participation. "It's amazing to see," Schaefer remarked. "There are so many kids playing now. It's so exciting to see how women's basketball is growing."

This growth is evidenced by increased viewership, higher participation rates at the youth level, and a greater number of young women aspiring to play at the collegiate and professional levels. The recent investment in media rights deals and the increased visibility of the WNBA have significantly contributed to this positive trend, creating a more vibrant and competitive landscape for women's basketball. Schaefer's observation highlights not only the transformative potential of the sport but also the responsibility of current leaders to nurture and sustain its continued progress.