Mustangs Dominate at Moody Coliseum Against Lamar Cardinals in Season Opener
In a display of basketball finesse, the SMU Mustangs secured a decisive victory over the Lamar Cardinals with a final score of 78-67. The Mustangs, playing at their home venue, Moody Coliseum in Dallas, started their season on a high note with this win. The Cardinals fought valiantly but were unable to match the intensity brought by the home team.
The game began with the Mustangs establishing an early lead and setting the tone for what was to come. By halftime, they had built up a solid 31-19 advantage. Their offensive efforts were matched by an equally impressive defensive performance that saw them block nine shots over the course of the game compared to six from their opponents.
The Mustangs' offense was firing on all cylinders as they shot 37 percent from field goal range and an impressive 73 percent from the free-throw line. They also outperformed in two-point attempts with a success rate of 44 percent. Their aggressive playstyle led them to draw fouls and capitalize on those opportunities by making 28 free throws.
Rebounding was another area where the Mustangs excelled; they outrebounded the Cardinals by grabbing 47 rebounds to their opponent's 35. This included an outstanding effort on offensive rebounds where they collected fifteen compared to five by Lamar.
The second half saw no let-up from SMU as they added another 47 points to their tally while holding Lamar to just under half that amount in scoring during this period alone. The Mustangs' fast-break points stood at sixteen, showcasing their ability to convert defense into quick scoring opportunities effectively.
Despite committing thirteen turnovers each, it was how both teams capitalized on these mistakes that made a difference; SMU scored eighteen points off turnovers while limiting Lamar's conversion to just nine points.
On individual performances, both teams had players who shone brightly but it was undoubtedly SMU's collective effort that carried them through – evident not only in point distribution but also through assists where they recorded fourteen assists throughout the game.
As fans look ahead after this opening victory for SMU, attention turns towards future matchups. The next challenge for Southern Methodist University will be against Texas A&M Aggies at Moody Coliseum once again – providing fans another opportunity to support their team at home soil. Scheduled for November 15th at 7:00 PM local time (Dallas), supporters can catch live action broadcasted via ESPN+.