A Historic Win for SMU

In a thrilling showdown at Moody Coliseum in University Park, Texas, the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs delivered one of their most significant victories in recent years. They defeated the No. 12 North Carolina Tar Heels, 97-83, in their ACC opener, marking a major milestone for the program.

The win was not only a testament to SMU’s growth but also a step toward proving their place among the top teams in college basketball. The Mustangs, who had previously struggled against high-ranked opponents, showcased their potential with a dominant performance that included strong shooting, strategic plays, and key contributions from multiple players.

Key Performers

Boopie Miller and Corey Washington, a transfer from Wichita State, were the standout performers for SMU. Miller, the point guard, led the team with 27 points and added 12 assists, securing a double-double. His ability to control the game and make crucial shots was pivotal. Washington contributed 23 points, providing a scoring boost that helped SMU maintain their lead throughout the game.

Other important contributors included BJ Edwards, who recently recorded his second triple-double of the season, making him the only player in the nation with two such achievements. Edwards ended the game with 15 points, six assists, and four rebounds. Jaron Pierre and Jaden Toombs also played key roles, adding 13 and 12 points respectively.

A Strong Start and Sustained Performance

SMU started the game with an impressive 11-0 run in the first six minutes, setting the tone for the rest of the match. They maintained a lead for much of the first half, even extending it to as many as nine points. Their sharp 3-point shooting was a key factor, as they shot 51.9% from beyond the arc, going 14 of 27.

However, North Carolina made a late push in the first half, launching a 13-2 run that culminated in a 3-pointer by 7-foot center Henri Veesaar. This brought the Tar Heels within two points, 31-29, with just over five minutes left in the half. But Miller’s buzzer-beating layup sent SMU into halftime tied at 39-39.

Second Half Dominance

The second half belonged to SMU, as they used a combination of strong defense and efficient offense to build a commanding lead. Washington was instrumental in this stretch, scoring nine points in the first three minutes of the half, including two 3-pointers. This allowed SMU to take a 50-46 lead and eventually grow their advantage to as much as 16 points.

The Mustangs never trailed in the second half, showcasing their resilience and determination. They held North Carolina’s leading scorers, Veesaar and Caleb Wilson, below their season averages, limiting the Tar Heels’ offensive production.

Implications for SMU

This victory is a significant boost for SMU as they enter the critical part of their season. The Mustangs have already secured quality wins over Butler, Texas A&M, and now No. 12 UNC. Their only losses came against two Quad 1 SEC teams — No. 17 Vanderbilt and LSU — which highlights their ability to compete with top-tier programs.

Looking ahead, SMU will face a challenging schedule, including three more ranked ACC opponents: No. 6 Duke, No. 21 Virginia, and No. 16 Louisville. However, Saturday’s win over a traditional powerhouse like North Carolina is a crucial step in building a resume that could earn them an NCAA Tournament bid for the first time in nine years.

Looking Ahead

With this win, SMU has proven that they are no longer just a team looking to make a name for themselves. They are now a force to be reckoned with in the ACC and beyond. As they continue to build momentum, fans can expect more exciting performances from this talented squad.