Temple Owls Set to Soar Against SMU Mustangs in Dallas Duel
As the Temple Owls prepare to face off against the SMU Mustangs at Moody Coliseum, fans are cautiously optimistic about their team's chances. The upcoming game on January 16th is a pivotal moment for the Owls, who have shown both flashes of brilliance and areas needing improvement in recent matchups.
In their last game against North Texas Mean Green on January 13th, TEM struggled with offensive consistency. Scoring only 51 points and shooting a mere 31 percent from the field, it was clear that finding the basket was a challenge. Despite an impressive free-throw percentage of 94, which indicates strong fundamentals under pressure, they were outrebounded by North Texas' aggressive play that led to a total of 39 rebounds for UNT compared to TEM's 30.
However, there are silver linings from past performances that suggest potential for success against SMU. In an earlier home game on January 11th versus East Carolina Pirates, TEM put up a more respectable fight with better ball distribution resulting in seven assists and improved field goal shooting at 36 percent. Their defensive efforts were also notable with four steals and one block.
The most promising display came during their encounter with Wichita State Shockers on January 7th when TEM emerged victorious scoring 68 points. They showcased their ability to convert defense into offense by capitalizing on turnovers and fast breaks which resulted in scoring twelve points off turnovers and twelve fast break points respectively.
For Temple Owls fans looking ahead to the clash with SMU Mustangs, it will be crucial for TEM to harness this defensive tenacity while sharpening their offensive execution. The team must focus on increasing field goal percentages early in the game and maintaining intensity throughout both halves if they wish to secure victory away from home.
The scheduled tip-off is set for January 16th at Moody Coliseum at precisely eight o'clock in the evening Eastern Time (ET). Fans unable to attend can catch all the action streamed live via ESPN+ online platform – an opportunity not just witness but support as Temple aims high against Southern Methodist University's formidable squad.