SMU's Big Win Over North Carolina

In a thrilling matchup, SMU's basketball team pulled off a significant victory against the 12th-ranked North Carolina Tar Heels. The game, held on January 3, 2026, marked a pivotal moment for the Mustangs, especially for their second-year coach, Andy Enfield. It was their first win against a ranked team under his leadership. Boopie Miller was the standout player, scoring 27 points and dishing out 12 assists. Corey Washington also had a strong performance with 23 points, while B. J. Edwards contributed 15 points and six assists. The Mustangs, now 12-2, showcased their shooting skills, making 60% of their field goals and 52% of their three-pointers. North Carolina, which had been on a hot streak with their best start in over 15 years, was led by Seth Trimble with 22 points. Henri Veesaar and freshman Caleb Wilson also made notable contributions with 14 and 13 points respectively.The game was tightly contested in the first half, with the lead changing hands multiple times. However, SMU took control after halftime, never looking back. Washington's nine points in the first 11 minutes of the second half were crucial, including two key three-pointers that broke the tie. Miller's performance was particularly impressive. He made 10 out of 13 field goals, including a memorable three-pointer from the right corner. This shot not only extended SMU's lead but also showcased Miller's skill and composure under pressure. This victory was a significant milestone for SMU, as their last win over a ranked team was back in February 2022 against Houston. The team's performance in this game highlighted their potential and set a positive tone for their Atlantic Coast Conference season. Looking ahead, North Carolina will host Wake Forest next Saturday, while SMU will travel to Clemson on Wednesday. Both teams will be looking to build on their recent performances and continue their success in the conference.