The SMU Mustangs men’s basketball team has stormed into its inaugural Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) season with fireworks, combining historic offensive efficiency with newfound conference rivalry drama. Sitting at 20-6 overall (11-4 at home), SMU ranks 20th nationally in scoring (82.7 PPG) and offensive rating (118.7), per recent NCAA data. Their high-octane style faces its toughest test yet this Saturday against #18 Clemson (21-5) in a nationally televised ACC showdown.
Recent Dominance
SMU enters Saturday’s game fresh off a 97-73 demolition of Notre Dame on February 19. Transfer guard Kario Oquendo dropped 24 points in that win, highlighting SMU’s deep roster with four double-digit scorers. The Mustangs’ offense has topped 80 points in 15 games this season, including a season-high 106 against East Carolina earlier this month.
Key Players Driving Success
- Kario Oquendo: Averaging 14.2 PPG, the Georgia transfer has scored 20+ in three of his last five games.
- Chuck Harris: The Butler transfer provides clutch perimeter shooting at 39% from three-point range.
- B.J. Edwards: Tennessee transfer anchors SMU’s backcourt with 4.8 assists per game.
ACC Transition Paying Off
Since joining the ACC in July 2024, SMU has leveraged its fast-paced style to compete with established programs. Their upcoming game against Clemson – ranked 15th nationally in three-point percentage (38.4%) – will test SMU’s defensive improvements after allowing just 64 points to Wake Forest last week.
Historical Context
This resurgence continues SMU’s basketball renaissance that began under Larry Brown (2012-2016). The program has now made 12 NCAA Tournament appearances all-time, seeking its first March Madness bid since 2017 after narrowly missing selection last year.
What’s Next?
The Mustangs face Clemson at Moody Coliseum on February 22 (4 PM ET, ACC Network). With both teams battling for NCAA Tournament positioning, this matchup could decide SMU’s postseason trajectory – especially given their 1-12 record against AP-ranked opponents since 2022.
