Syracuse stuns Miami to end ACC title hopes

In Dallas, Texas, the Southern Methodist University Mustangs faced off against the Virginia Cavaliers in their first Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) game on Saturday. Kario Oquendo led the Mustangs with an impressive 21 points, contributing significantly to SMU's offensive efforts throughout the match. As the game progressed, the Mustangs maintained a slim lead going into halftime, up by two points before the Cavaliers surged ahead with a four-point play by Isaac McKneely early in the second half. However, the tide turned dramatically when Virginia failed to score a field goal in the final ten minutes of play. This cold streak included nine missed shots, three turnovers, and no attempts at free throws, highlighting their inability to capitalize on past opportunities. The Mustangs capitalized on Virginia's struggles, allowing them to secure a 63-51 victory. Samet Yigitoglu was also pivotal, scoring 16 points, while Matt Cross contributed with ten rebounds, further solidifying SMU's control of the game. The victory improved SMU's season record to 8-2 under their first-year coach Andy Enfield, marking a solid start to their ACC campaign. Virginia, on the other hand, dropped to 5-4 and faced a disappointing start to their own conference play. This game showcased the defensive prowess of the Mustangs, particularly in clutch moments, where they managed to hold off their opponents efficiently. The performance under pressure demonstrated the potential of the team moving forward, emphasizing their readiness to compete at a higher level in the ACC. With Oquendo leading the charge, SMU sent a clear message to the rest of the conference about their competitive spirit and capability. As the season progresses, SMU will aim to build on this momentum, while Virginia must regroup and address their scoring woes to improve their standing. The Mustangs' ability to execute in critical situations will be essential as they navigate through the challenges of their inaugural ACC season, setting the stage for future matchups and opportunities within the conference.