The SMU Mustangs, invigorated by a recent commanding triumph over the 21st-ranked Louisville Cardinals, are now preparing to face Boston College in a pivotal Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) basketball showdown. This encounter presents an opportunity for SMU to bolster its promising season and solidify its bid for a spot in the prestigious NCAA Tournament. For Boston College, the upcoming game offers a chance to rebound from a string of disheartening defeats and inject some much-needed revitalization into their campaign.
Mustangs Ride High After Louisville Upset, Eagles Seek Redemption in Dallas Showdown
In an electrifying contest at the Moody Coliseum in Dallas, Texas, on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the SMU Mustangs delivered a stunning performance, defeating the No. 21 Louisville Cardinals with a decisive 95-85 victory. This win not only halted Louisville's impressive five-game winning streak but also significantly enhanced SMU's home record to a formidable 14-2. Key to the Mustangs' success were the dynamic duo of Jaron Pierre Jr. and Boopie Miller, who consistently showcased their scoring prowess. Pierre Jr. led the charge with an outstanding 25 points, while Miller contributed 23 points and an impressive nine assists. This marked the third occasion in their last four games where both players surpassed the 20-point mark, highlighting their crucial role in the team's offense. Miller boasts an average of 19.0 points per game, complemented by Pierre's 17.7 points. Head coach Andy Enfield emphasized the gravity of such victories, stating that defeating high-caliber teams like Louisville is imperative for NCAA Tournament contention and securing a favorable seed. The Mustangs, with an overall record of 18-8 (7-6 ACC), are keenly focused on their March Madness aspirations.
Conversely, the Boston College Eagles (9-17, 2-11 ACC) arrive in Dallas grappling with a challenging season. Their recent encounter against Florida State on February 17, 2026, proved particularly frustrating. Despite holding a commanding 42-32 lead at halftime and extending it to 59-45 with just 11 minutes remaining, the Eagles ultimately succumbed to an 80-72 loss. This defeat marked their seventh consecutive setback, with five of these losses decided by single-digit margins. Guard Fred Payne has been a consistent offensive force for the Eagles, leading the team with an average of 15.2 points per game. He has achieved double-digit scoring in 12 consecutive games, including five instances where he scored 20 points or more. Following the disappointing loss to Florida State, Eagles coach Earl Grant openly expressed his team's frustration, acknowledging their thorough preparation but lamenting their inability to close out the game. He stressed the importance of returning to work and addressing their finishing struggles. The upcoming game at Moody Coliseum against the high-flying Mustangs presents a formidable challenge for Boston College as they strive to turn their season around.
This impending matchup offers a compelling narrative of contrasting fortunes and aspirations. SMU, riding a wave of confidence from their upset win, aims to maintain their momentum and solidify their NCAA Tournament resume. Their potent offense, spearheaded by Miller and Pierre Jr., will be a key factor. For Boston College, this game is an opportunity for resilience. Despite their recent struggles, the Eagles' coach and players are determined to overcome their finishing woes and demonstrate their capabilities on the court. The game promises to be an engaging display of collegiate basketball, where both teams have significant stakes in the outcome.