DALLAS, Texas — The Mustangs were picked 3rd in the American Athletic Conference preseason rankings, following Houston and Memphis. Tim Jankovich leads the Mustangs, entering in his 5th season as head coach and returning most of his young team from last season. SMU Guard’s, Kendric Davis (Jr.) and Tyson Jolly (Sr.) were picked to the preseason all-conference team.
The Mustangs finished their abbreviated 2019 season 19-11 overall, with much of their success coming from an impressive 15-2 record at home.
Sam Houston State won the Southland Conference last season, finishing 18-13 overall and 11-9 in SLC play. The Bearcats make their first post-season NIT appearance in 2019, but they will need young talent to step up this time around. SLC 2019 player of the year, Cameron Delaney, produced much of their offensive production before finishing his eligibility last season.
The Bearcats head coach, Jason Hooten has had lots of success in his time with SHSU, finishing in the top 3 of the SLC 11 of the last 15 years.
AAC teams will play 20 conference matchups, in a double round robin format. SMU could still add to their non-conference schedule.
Wednesday night’s non-conference matchup tips at 7 pm CT in Moody Coliseum. The game will be available live on ESPN+.