In a tough outing for the BC Eagles, their trip to Dallas to face the SMU Mustangs ended in a 94-70 defeat, marking their eighth consecutive loss and 17th straight ACC road defeat. It was a bittersweet homecoming for Dallas native Caleb Steger, but the joy was short-lived as the Mustangs took control with a commanding performance.
BC fans were keenly watching for updates on Donald Hand Jr., who had been sidelined with a knee injury. Initially listed as questionable, hopes were dashed when he was ruled out just two hours before tip-off, marking his third consecutive missed game.
First Half Highlights
The game started with promise for BC, as they briefly led 14-11 after Fred Payne capitalized on a turnover. The Eagles even pushed ahead to a 36-29 lead, thanks to a 9-0 run fueled by back-to-back threes from Jason Asemota and Payne. However, SMU responded with an 11-0 run to close the half, capped by a buzzer-beating three from Jaron Pierre Jr., shifting momentum firmly in their favor with a 40-36 halftime lead.
SMU's first-half success was built on 50% shooting and a strong presence in the paint, scoring 26 of their 40 points inside. BC, meanwhile, relied on their perimeter game, shooting 9/20 from beyond the arc, with Payne leading the charge with 11 points.
Second Half Surge
The Mustangs continued their dominance into the second half, quickly building a double-digit lead. Jaron Pierre Jr.'s layup extended their advantage to 15 points, and SMU never looked back. The Mustangs' relentless offense, coupled with BC's struggles, saw the lead balloon to 79-52 with just under seven minutes remaining.
SMU's starters stayed on the floor, allowing them to maintain their momentum and secure a decisive 94-70 victory. Their impressive 65-34 run from late in the first half through the end of the game was the defining stretch, overshadowing BC's early competitiveness.
BC shot just 33% overall and struggled from deep, hitting only 11 of 35 three-point attempts. Fred Payne led the Eagles with 22 points, but it wasn't enough to counter SMU's efficient 56% shooting and balanced scoring, with six Mustangs reaching double figures.
After the game, BC head coach Earl Grant was asked about his future with the team. He emphasized his focus on improving the team and working with the players, expressing confidence in the program's direction and potential.