CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Sunday's win against North Carolina wasn't just a statement win for the players on this year's roster that have been questioned throughout the year.
The victory that sent the 7-seed Texas A&M into the second week of the NCAA tournament was historic and important for coach Billy Kennedy, who's had his share of detractors inside the Aggies' fan base during a tumultuous season.
With Sunday's victory, Kennedy became the first coach to lead the program to multiple Sweet 16 appearances since 1980. A win over 3-seed Michigan (30-7) on Thursday in Los Angeles will push A&M (22-12) into the Elite Eight for the first time, another mark that will strengthen the defense Kennedy has built for himself in recent weeks.