An open letter from Wade Taylor IV to the Texas A&M Aggies family.
To the Texas A&M Aggies, our dedicated 12th Man, and everyone who has walked with me on this incredible journey:
With all of my humility and gratitude, I’d like to say thank you. Thank you for believing in a young guy from Dallas who came to College Station with a desire, a passion for basketball, and a determination to grow, compete, and create a legacy that will make you proud. Because of you, I’ve grown into a man, not simply a ballplayer.
When I initially put on the maroon and white, I had no idea how connected I would feel to this university, team, and family. From the first time I stepped onto the Reed Arena hardwood to the innumerable practices, challenges, and triumphs that followed, this great community has provided me with nothing but support, pride, and encouragement.
To my coaches, thank you for pushing me to new heights. You recognized something in me, trusted me, and helped me grow into a better athlete, leader, and person. You showed me that greatness is defined not only by what you do when the lights are turned on, but also by how you hold yourself when no one is looking.
To my teammates, you are my brothers. The friendships we’ve made will survive far beyond the last buzzer. We overcame challenges, celebrated successes, learned from losses, and made memories that will live in my heart forever. You made the road worthwhile—with every early morning exercise, locker room moment, each time we laced up for each other.
To the fans, you are the heart and spirit of Aggieland. I can still hear your cries reverberating throughout the arena, feel your energy rush through my veins on game nights, and see the maroon waves in the audience as we gave it all. You encouraged me during difficult times and fueled every ounce of passion I had for the game. Your belief in me has meant everything.
To the whole Texas A&M community, thank you for welcoming me not just as an athlete, but as one of your own. You established an environment where I could develop, where I was encouraged to expand beyond basketball, and where I always felt at home.
Regardless of where life or this game leads me next, Texas A&M will always be home. I will always uphold the traditions, beliefs, and fight that define what it means to be an Aggie. This part of my life has transformed, altered, and motivated me beyond measure.
Forever grateful, forever proud, and always an Aggie.
With love, respect, and the 12th Man spirit,
Wade Taylor IV
#GigEmForever.