Recap
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SMU Mustangs Gallop Past North Carolina Tar Heels with Second Half Surge

The SMU Mustangs improved their record to 1-0 after a commanding performance against the North Carolina Tar Heels, who now stand at 0-1. The game ended with a score of 97-83 in favor of the home team, SMU, at Moody Coliseum.


Jan 3, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Caleb Wilson (8) moves the ball to the basket past SMU Mustangs forward Corey Washington (3) and center Samet Yigitoglu (24) during the first half at Moody Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

First Half


The first half saw both teams locked in a tight contest, each scoring 39 points. The Mustangs showcased their offensive prowess early on, with Boopie Miller leading the charge by contributing significantly to the team's assists and points tally. His precision from beyond the arc was instrumental in keeping pace with the Tar Heels.


Second Half


In the second half, SMU took control of the game. Their field goal percentage soared to an impressive 60 percent as they outscored Chapel Hill by 14 points. Corey Washington's dominance in rebounds and Samet YiÄŸitoÄŸlu's defensive blocks were pivotal during this period. The Ponies' ability to capitalize on fast-break opportunities further widened their lead.


Jan 3, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; SMU Mustangs forward Corey Washington (3) drives to the basket past North Carolina Tar Heels center Henri Veesaar (13) during the second half at Moody Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Key Performances


Boopie Miller emerged as a standout player for SMU, delivering an all-around performance that included scoring and facilitating plays for his teammates. Jaden Toombs also made his presence felt under the basket with crucial rebounds and efficient shooting from close range.


On the other side, despite North Carolina's efforts led by their top scorers and playmakers, they struggled to contain SMU’s high-paced offense in critical moments of the game.


Jan 3, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Jarin Stevenson (15) drives to the basket past SMU Mustangs forward Corey Washington (3) during the first half at Moody Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Conclusion


The "SMU Mustangs vs North Carolina Tar Heels match summary" highlights how effective teamwork and strategic plays allowed SMU to secure this victory convincingly. Fans can look forward to more exciting games as these teams continue their season journey.


Looking ahead, fans should mark their calendars for January 7th when SMU will face off against Clemson Tigers at Littlejohn Coliseum at 9:00 PM EDT on ESPNU.


For more insights into this matchup or future games like these "SMU Mustangs post-game interviews," "SMU Mustangs match rating," or "SMU Mustangs vs North Carolina Tar Heels highlights," stay tuned! Share this article if you enjoyed reading about your favorite team's latest triumph!

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