Mustangs to Clash with Gaels at SimpliFi Arena in Honolulu Showdown

As the Southern Methodist University Mustangs prepare to face the Iona Gaels at SimpliFi Arena at Stan Sheriff Center, fans are anticipating an intense matchup. The Mustangs have had a mixed bag of results in their recent outings, showing both resilience and areas for improvement.

In their last game against the Horned Frogs, despite a strong second half where they scored 44 points, the Mustangs fell short with a final score of 75-83. Their shooting from beyond the arc was notably lacking efficiency, hitting only two out of fourteen attempts. However, they demonstrated solid performance inside by scoring 38 points in the paint and securing 41 rebounds.

The previous game saw them struggle against Arizona State's Sun Devils on home turf. Scoring only 57 points compared to their opponent's 75 highlighted challenges in offensive execution; they shot just under 33 percent from the field and around 30 percent from two-point range. Nevertheless, their defense racked up six blocks and matched this with six steals.

Against Jackson State Tigers earlier in December, it was a nail-biter that ended narrowly with SMU trailing by one point at full time (68-69). The Mustangs showed better shooting discipline with a field goal percentage of 45 and were particularly effective on fast breaks contributing to their total score.

Looking ahead to their encounter with Iona Gaels in Honolulu presents an opportunity for redemption. Playing away from home can be challenging but also invigorating; SimpliFi Arena could provide just the right atmosphere for SMU to harness some much-needed momentum.

Fans can catch this exciting game on December 22nd at 8:00 PM local time on ESPNU (channel number:208). With both teams eager for victory, it promises to be an engaging contest filled with strategic plays and athletic prowess.