Amber Aniston • November 28, 2024

SMU Dominates Second Half to Defeat Washington State 77-60 and Win Acrisure Holiday Invitational

The SMU Mustangs claimed the Acrisure Holiday Invitational title with a commanding 77-60 victory over the Washington State Cougars on Wednesday night in Palm Springs, California. Led by Boopie Miller’s 16 points and a dominant second-half performance, the Mustangs overcame a four-point halftime deficit to secure their first in-season tournament championship since the 2019-20 season.


The win moves SMU to 6-2 on the season, while Washington State’s record falls to 6-2 after their three-game win streak was snapped.


A Tale of Two Halves

SMU struggled offensively in the first half, missing their first nine shots and shooting just 31% from the field. Washington State capitalized, building a seven-point lead early in the second half on a three-pointer by Ethan Price. However, the Mustangs quickly found their rhythm, embarking on an 18-5 run fueled by Samet Yigitoglu and Chuck Harris to take control of the game.


In the second half, SMU shot an impressive 56.7% from the field and went a perfect 13-for-13 from the free-throw line. Their offensive efficiency was complemented by a dominant defensive effort that held Washington State to just 39.1% shooting after the break.


Key Performances


  • Boopie Miller: The junior guard led all scorers with 16 points, hitting nine of ten free throws and adding five assists.
  • Samet Yigitoglu: The freshman center recorded his first career double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, providing critical scoring in the paint.
  • Chuck Harris and B.J. Edwards: Harris scored 14 points, while Edwards contributed 13 points and five rebounds to the Mustangs’ balanced attack.
  • Matt Cross: The senior forward grabbed 10 rebounds, including seven on the offensive glass, and added seven points and two steals.


Washington State was led by Nate Calmese with 15 points, while Ethan Price and LeJuan Watts added 12 points each. Despite their efforts, the Cougars struggled inside, managing just 18 points in the paint compared to SMU’s 44.


Dominance in the Paint and on the Boards

SMU’s ability to dominate the interior proved decisive. The Mustangs out-rebounded the Cougars 51-25, including 22 offensive rebounds, which they converted into 21 second-chance points. This physical advantage allowed SMU to control the tempo and generate high-percentage scoring opportunities throughout the second half.


Their ability to capitalize on offensive rebounds also forced Washington State into foul trouble, limiting their ability to defend aggressively. SMU’s dominance in the paint highlighted their physicality and composure, creating a consistent scoring presence near the rim.


Game-Changing Runs


Key scoring runs defined the game for SMU:


  • 7-0 Run: Early in the second half, Yigitoglu’s dunk tied the game at 34-34, sparking a momentum shift.
  • 10-0 Run: Midway through the half, the Mustangs stretched their lead to 16 points, effectively putting the game out of reach.
  • 19-3 Closing Run: Over the final six minutes, SMU outscored Washington State 19-3, showcasing their defensive intensity and offensive execution.


The Mustangs’ ability to maintain composure and execute during these stretches underscored their growth under head coach Andy Enfield. The team’s balance between veteran leadership and emerging talent provided the depth needed to dominate late in the game.


Defensive Intensity Secures the Win

SMU’s second-half defense was pivotal, as they forced Washington State into tough shots and limited their ball movement. The Mustangs held the Cougars scoreless for a critical four-minute stretch in the second half, disrupting their rhythm and creating transition opportunities.


Matt Cross and Samet Yigitoglu anchored the defensive effort with their presence in the paint, while guards Miller and Edwards applied relentless pressure on the perimeter. This cohesive defensive strategy allowed SMU to control the pace and maintain their lead.


Tournament Success

This marks SMU’s first in-season tournament title under head coach Andy Enfield, who is in his first year with the program. The Mustangs previously won the 2019-20 Southwestern Showdown but hadn’t claimed a bracket-style tournament championship since the 2015-16 Las Vegas Classic.


Boopie Miller was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player after averaging 16 points and five assists across the two games. His leadership and clutch scoring were instrumental in SMU’s success.


The tournament also showcased the depth of SMU’s roster. Freshman players like Yigitoglu and Edwards proved they could contribute at a high level, while veterans like Cross and Harris provided stability and experience.


Looking Ahead

SMU returns to action on December 3 when they host Alabama State in their final non-conference tune-up before facing Virginia in their ACC opener on December 7. The Mustangs will look to build on their tournament success and continue their strong start under Enfield.


Washington State will regroup and travel to Reno, Nevada, to face the Wolfpack on December 2. Despite the loss, the Cougars remain a formidable team, with opportunities to address their interior struggles and refine their play before conference competition begins.


A Promising Start for SMU

SMU’s victory over Washington State highlights the team’s growth and potential under their new head coach. With a balanced roster, depth, and the ability to execute in high-pressure situations, the Mustangs have established themselves as a team to watch this season. Their performance in the Acrisure Holiday Invitational serves as a strong foundation for their transition into ACC play.


The Mustangs’ focus on rebounding and defensive intensity sets them apart as a well-rounded squad capable of competing against elite programs. As they move forward, SMU’s blend of youthful energy and veteran leadership positions them as a contender in their new conference. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if this tournament success propels them to even greater heights in the coming weeks.

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