BLACKSBURG, Va. — In a thrilling matchup on Wednesday evening, Matt Cross led the charge for SMU with 21 points, while Chuck Harris contributed 20 points as the Mustangs secured an 81-75 win over Virginia Tech. The game was closely contested, showcasing a total of eight ties and seven lead changes throughout the duration of the second half.

With just over five minutes remaining, Harris made a pivotal three-pointer that gave SMU a lead they would not relinquish. He followed up with another crucial three-pointer three minutes later, and Cross also added to the scoreboard with a deep shot that brought the Mustangs’ lead to 77-68 with only 1:23 left on the clock.

Virginia Tech attempted to mount a comeback, starting with a three-pointer from Jaden Schutt, followed by two free throws each from Tobi Lawal and Ben Hammond. Meanwhile, SMU faced challenges with a missed three-pointer and a turnover. With the score tightening to 77-75 in favor of SMU with just 20 seconds left, Virginia Tech fouled Boopie Miller, who converted both shots in the one-and-one opportunity. However, Hammond’s jumper missed the mark, and Cross sealed the victory for SMU by hitting two free throws in the final seconds.

In addition to Cross and Harris, Samet Yigitoglu chipped in with 12 points, while backup guard Kario Oquendo and Boopie Miller contributed 11 and 10 points, respectively, for SMU, who improved their season record to 18-5 overall and 9-3 in conference play, claiming victory in seven of their last eight games.

For Virginia Tech, standout performances came from Mylyjael Poteat, who managed to score 15 points and secured 10 rebounds. Additionally, Schutt also scored 15 points, and Ben Burnham added 12 points to the tally for the Hokies, who now stand at 10-13 overall and 5-7 in conference action.

The first half remained tightly contested, with no team gaining more than a six-point advantage. SMU initially edged ahead 9-8 at the 15-minute mark and maintained that lead until Brandon Rechsteiner’s three-pointer allowed the Hokies to take a narrow 35-32 lead with just under two minutes remaining in the half. Cross responded with a three-pointer of his own, ensuring the teams entered halftime tied at 35.

Looking ahead, Virginia Tech will travel to face Notre Dame on Saturday, while SMU will host Pitt on Tuesday.