SMU Hosts Georgia Tech in Dallas Clash
For the first time since 1971, SMU will host Georgia Tech, aiming to return to its winning ways in Saturday’s ACC matchup. Both teams are looking to bounce back after recent setbacks, with SMU trying to snap a two-game losing streak and Georgia Tech looking to recover from a loss at Syracuse.
SMU’s Homecoming
The Mustangs (11-4, 2-2 ACC) started conference play strong, notching wins over Virginia and Boston College. However, they hit a rough patch with losses to Duke and North Carolina, including an 82-67 defeat in Chapel Hill on Tuesday.
In that game, SMU struggled offensively, shooting just 33.3 percent from the field and converting only 4 of 18 attempts from beyond the arc. Despite these struggles, Chuck Harris provided a spark off the bench with 18 points, while B.J. Edwards added 15.
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Head coach Andy Enfield is looking for his team to regain its edge:
“We missed seven straight layups in the first half, and they were able to get out in transition,” Enfield said of the North Carolina loss. “We hope that Saturday we come out, play great and hold home court.”
Boopie Miller, a Wake Forest transfer, leads SMU with 15.3 points per game, while Harris contributes 11.8 ppg.
Georgia Tech Seeks Offensive Rhythm
The Yellow Jackets (8-8, 2-3 ACC) have seen mixed results in recent weeks. They picked up their first power conference win on Dec. 31 against Notre Dame and followed it with a dominant 21-point victory over Boston College. However, Tuesday’s 62-55 loss at Syracuse ended a three-game winning streak.
Against Syracuse, Georgia Tech struggled offensively, shooting just 36.4 percent from the field and a dismal 4-of-21 from 3-point range (19 percent). Head coach Damon Stoudamire emphasized the need for better ball movement:
“We had just eight assists; we’ve got to be better in that area,” Stoudamire said. “Collectively, guys have to figure out how to get other guys easy shots.”
Lance Terry, the Yellow Jackets’ leading scorer at 15.8 points per game, tallied 18 points in the loss. Baye Ndongo adds 12.3 points and leads the team with 6.9 rebounds per game.
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Key Matchups
- Boopie Miller vs. Lance Terry: Both guards are their team’s offensive catalysts and will look to carry the scoring load.
- Rebounding Battle: Ndongo’s physical presence will be tested by SMU’s frontcourt, particularly if the Mustangs can improve their finishing around the rim.
- 3-Point Efficiency: Both teams struggled from deep in their recent losses, so perimeter shooting could be the difference-maker.
What’s at Stake
SMU needs a win to stabilize its conference standing and regain momentum. Georgia Tech, meanwhile, is looking to prove its resilience after a tough road loss. With both teams seeking consistency, this matchup could be pivotal in shaping their respective ACC campaigns.