DALLAS, TEXAS — SMU begins the New Year hosting Houston on Sunday, January 3rd. SMU comes into the matchup undefeated, at 6-0 overall and 2-0 in the American Athletic Conference. UH comes to Dallas 7-1 overall, and 2-1 in the AAC. Last year, the series split, both teams winning the match up on their home court. The last time the Cougars played in Moody Coliseum, SMU’s Emmanuel Bandoumel hit a game winning 3-pointer in an overtime thriller.
The Mustangs have been perfect so far, coming off a 79-71 win at Temple. Offensive production has been the Mustangs most consistent aspect of play, averaging over 84 points per game. SMU leads the AAC in scoring, assists and shooting percentage. The Mustangs have been tough to defend, with 5 players averaging double digits scoring. SMU Head Coach, Tim Jankovich said his team will need to rebound better to have success against UH.
Preseason polls picked the Cougars to win the AAC. The Cougars got off to a great start on the season with wins over Texas Tech, South Carolina, and Boise State in non conference play. UH has been ranked as high as 5th nationally, but come into tonight’s match up off their first loss. The Cougars got beat by 1 point at Tulsa on Dec. 29th. They lead the AAC in rebounding margin, steals and turnover margin.
SMU received votes in both the AP and coaches poll for the 4th consecutive week. A win over Houston could earn the Mustangs a spot in the top 25. The matchup will be televised live on ESPN2 and available on AM radio, channel 770. Limited tickets are available for the game, which tips at 6 pm CT.
