What was UNC basketball's defensive performance against SMU on January 3rd?

UNC's defense struggled significantly, allowing SMU to score 97 points and shoot 60% from the field, their highest point total allowed in nearly four years.

Who were the key players in the SMU vs. UNC game?

Boopie Miller led SMU with 27 points and 12 assists, while Corey Washington added 23 points, including five three-pointers.

When is UNC basketball's next game after the SMU loss?

The Tar Heels are scheduled to play Wake Forest on January 10th at the Smith Center.

Home / Sports / SMU Outguns UNC in Shocking 97-83 Upset

SMU Outguns UNC in Shocking 97-83 Upset

4 Jan

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Summary

UNC's defense allowed 97 points, the most in nearly four years.
SMU shot 60% from the field and 71.4% in the second half.
The Tar Heels face Wake Forest next on January 10th.

The 12th-ranked UNC Tar Heels suffered a significant 97-83 defeat at SMU on January 3rd, characterized by one of their worst defensive performances in nearly four years. Prior to this game, UNC had been limiting opponents to just 36.1% shooting, but SMU shattered those numbers, scoring the most points against UNC in an ACC contest since January 2022.

SMU's offense proved relentless, becoming the first team this season to shoot over 50% in both halves against the Tar Heels. They finished the game shooting 60% from the field, with an exceptional 71.4% in the second half alone. The Mustangs also drained 14 three-pointers, the most UNC has allowed in regulation since 2022, as four SMU players scored in double digits.

Despite the setback, UNC coach Hubert Davis expressed confidence in his team's ability to learn from the loss and bounce back, drawing parallels to a previous loss to Michigan State that preceded a seven-game winning streak. The Tar Heels' next opportunity to do so will be against in-state rival Wake Forest on January 10th.