In a tightly contested game, SMU narrowly defeated California 81-77, overcoming a moment of adversity after initially holding a significant lead. Chuck Harris was instrumental in SMU’s victory, scoring 21 points with an impressive 9-of-12 from the field and knocking down three shots from beyond the arc. B.J. Edwards contributed significantly with 18 points and five assists, while Samet Yigitoglu added 11 points for the Mustangs. Demonstrating superb shooting skills, SMU achieved a 56% field goal percentage and nailed eight of their 15 three-point attempts, although they grappled with 18 turnovers.
For California, Jeremiah Wilkinson was a standout performer with 20 points, including three 3-pointers, whereas Mady Sissoko and Rytis Petraitis added 16 and 12 points, respectively. Despite their shooting struggles, hitting only 39% of their attempts, the Golden Bears capitalized on free throws, converting 22 of 32, while dominating on the offensive boards for 21 second-chance points.
The game took a dramatic turn in the last five and a half minutes, when California managed to tie the score. However, SMU quickly responded with a critical nine-point run. Sissoko provided a late spark for California, scoring the team’s final six points in the last minute. It was Matt Cross who secured SMU’s victory, confidently sinking two key free throws with only three seconds remaining.
Earlier in the game, the Mustangs had surged ahead by 16 points after Edwards hit a three to start the second half. Despite maintaining a ten-point lead, a relentless 15-5 run from California, highlighted by Andrej Stojakovic’s successful free throws, brought Cal back into contention.
SMU was ahead 42-29 at the half, thanks to 13 points from Harris, showcasing their offensive prowess from the outset. This win allowed SMU to sweep the season series, having previously bested Cal 76-65 in a late January matchup in Dallas.
Challenged by their current form, California has now suffered five consecutive defeats. They are set to face Boston College at home in their upcoming game, whereas SMU will play against Stanford on the road.
