A&M-Commerce Ranks Top Four at Baylor University’s National Collegiate Sports Analytics Competition

Under the guidance and supervision of Dr. Son Bui, several Texas A&M University-Commerce College of Business students took part in Baylor University's National Collegiate Sports Analytics Competition, making their inaugural debut.

Hosted at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas, on February 21 and 22, 2024, the competition consisted of a nationwide rigorous challenge in sports analytics comprised of four intense rounds, each testing participants' creativity and analytical skills in deciphering sports data while addressing environmental stability. The competition featured students from across several universities spanning the nation, which included the likes of Baylor University, University of North Texas, University of Texas-Austin, University of Florida, University of Iowa, University of New Haven, St. Edwards University, Findlay University, and A&M-Commerce, with four Lion students participating.

Thanks to the outstanding performance of Ginikachi Oyakhare and Mahesh Sontakke, who secured a sixth and twelfth place finish in the competition, respectively, A&M-Commerce was positioned among the top four universities alongside UT-Austin, the University of Iowa, and the University of New Haven. Both students are currently pursuing graduate degrees in business analytics, and their achievements underscore the rigor of the curriculum and the caliber of education offered at A&M-Commerce.

Expressing pride in the students’ achievements, Associate Professor of Business Analytics, Bui stated, “This experience was enlightening and exciting for our students. It demonstrates the high-quality teaching and mentorship they receive at TAMUC. We are confident that our students have gained invaluable insights from this competition, contributing to their overall growth and success.”

Oyakhare expressed her joy in her participation and ranking saying, “It was such an honor to represent the College of Business and A&M-Commerce for the first time at the NSCAC. Placing sixth in the competition is a testament to the strength of our Business Analytics Program.”

On his behalf, Sontakke said, “I'm delighted that through the Marketing and Business Analytics Student Organization and the College of Business, we as students have ample opportunities to participate and compete in such national competitions that truly allow us to test our skills whilst competing with the best in the nation.”