Texas A&M freshman Josh Irving earned a USA U18 camp invite, giving the rising Aggies big man a major stage before his SEC career begins.
Texas A&M basketball is getting an early national spotlight from Josh Irving, the incoming freshman big man who has been invited to the 2026 USA Men’s U18 National Team Training Camp.
Irving is one of 35 players selected for the camp, where roster spots are up for grabs for the 2026 FIBA U18 Men’s AmeriCup in Mexico from June 1-7.
For the Aggies, this is more than a nice offseason note. It’s another sign that Irving’s profile is climbing fast before he even arrives in College Station.
The 6-11 forward/center is rated No. 61 in the 2026 class by 247Sports, but his selection by USA Basketball puts him in a different kind of conversation.
Irving helped fuel that rise with a strong AAU season in the Pro16 League, averaging 8.3 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game. He also earned Pacific League Co-Player of the Year honors, showing the kind of two-way impact that translates well to the SEC.
What makes Irving intriguing is the defensive upside. He’s long, springy and mobile, with the lateral quickness to cover ground and the rim protection Texas A&M can build around.
In Bucky McMillan’s aggressive system, that combination could matter quickly.
The offensive game is still developing, but there are encouraging signs. Irving shot 76% at the free-throw line and 38% from three during AAU play, though that outside percentage came on only 13 attempts.
He doesn’t project as a volume shooter right away, but the touch is worth watching.
The next step is strength. Irving’s frame is still filling out, which is normal for a young big.
But with Mackenzie Mgbako and Jalen Shelley adding support on the wing, Texas A&M may have room to let him grow while still using his athleticism early.