Mustangs Defeat No. 12 North Carolina in ACC Opener

The Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs achieved a remarkable victory, defeating the No. 12 North Carolina Tar Heels 97-83 in their Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) opener on January 3, 2026. This win marks SMU’s first triumph over a ranked opponent since February 2022 and sets a significant tone for their current season.

This exhilarating match took place at a packed Moody Coliseum, where the Mustangs improved their season record to 12-2, while the Tar Heels fell to 13-2. The victory is notable not only for the scoreline but also for being SMU’s most substantial win in four years. It is a testament to the team’s growth and resilience, especially as it represents their first win against a Quad 1 team since December 23, 2022.

Key Players Shine in Dominant Performance

Leading the Mustangs were standout performances from guard Boopie Miller and Corey Washington, who contributed 27 and 23 points, respectively. Their dynamic scoring was crucial, especially during a strong start that saw SMU launch an 11-0 run within the first six minutes of the game. The team showcased their shooting prowess, finishing with an impressive 51.9% from three-point range, converting 14 of 27 attempts.

Despite a brief surge from North Carolina, which included a 13-2 run capped by a three-pointer from Henri Veesaar, the Mustangs managed to tie the game before halftime. This momentum carried into the second half, where SMU displayed tactical excellence and resilience. Washington scored nine points in the first three minutes of the half, including two pivotal three-pointers that set the stage for a dominant performance.

The Mustangs maintained a lead that swelled to as much as 16 points, effectively neutralizing North Carolina’s key players. The Tar Heels’ Seth Trimble led his team with 22 points, but SMU’s defensive strategy kept leading scorers like Veesaar and Caleb Wilson below their season averages.

Jaron Pierre, a Jacksonville State transfer, added 13 points, while true freshman Jaden Toombs contributed 12 points, further solidifying the team’s comprehensive performance. The experience of BJ Edwards, who recorded his second triple-double of the season, also played a critical role, with 15 points, six assists, and four rebounds.

A Turning Point for SMU Basketball

This victory is pivotal for the Mustangs as they seek to build a strong resume for an NCAA Tournament bid, a goal that has eluded the program for the past nine years. The win against North Carolina serves as a statement of SMU’s capability to contend with elite teams, showcasing both their offensive firepower and disciplined defensive strategies.

The upcoming schedule presents challenges, with three more ranked ACC opponents, including No. 6 Duke, No. 21 Virginia, and No. 16 Louisville, on the horizon. The Mustangs’ ability to control the game and execute under pressure reflects the depth and talent within the team, as well as the effectiveness of the coaching staff’s strategies.

Lia Assimakopoulos, a sports reporter for The Dallas Morning News, emphasizes the significance of this victory for SMU basketball, noting that it could signal a shift in the program’s trajectory. This win not only elevates the Mustangs’ confidence but also sets a new standard for performance within the team.

As the season progresses, the Mustangs will be tested, but the momentum gained from this victory positions them as a formidable competitor in the ACC. With a focus on resilience and teamwork, SMU is prepared to tackle the challenges ahead, aiming to secure their place among the top teams in college basketball.