Matt Stone/Courier Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Alabama Crimson Tide forward Essence Cody (21)during practice before the 2026 NCAA Women's March Madness basketball tournament at the KFC Yum Center In Louisville, Kentucky. March 20, 2026.
The Texas A&M Aggies women’s basketball program and head coach Joni Taylor added a big piece to the puzzle in the offseason when they landed former Alabama forward Essence Cody out of the transfer portal.
Cody, a senior, averaged 11.5 points per game and 4 rebounds per game at Alabama last season and was expected to be a key contributor for the Aggies this season.
The key word there, however, is “was.” Because Cody will not be playing at all for Texas A&M in 2026-27. She wasn’t suspended. And she’s not injured.
Instead, Cody will miss the season after announcing her pregnancy.
Texas A&M’s Essence Cody Announces Pregnancy That Will Keep Her Off The Court
“We are incredibly proud of Essence,” Taylor said of Cody’s announcement, which may not have gone over as well with other coaches. “She has handled everything with grace and we know she is going to be an incredible mother. Our main priority is to provide her and her child with all of the care we possibly can to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.
“Essence’s leadership will be pivotal for us this season and we can’t wait to have her back on the court with us next year. We know that the 12th Man will rally behind her and her precious baby.”
On top of the pregnancy announcement, there’s even more good news for Cody. While the NCAA recently switched to a five-in-five eligibility model, there is a carve-out that allows pregnant athletes to pause their eligibility clock.
So, not only will Cody be able to do what’s best for her and her child, but she won’t lose any eligibility in the process. Although we will say, this is the first time we can remember something like this happening in major women’s college basketball.