UNC Tar Heels Dominate SMU in Decisive ACC Basketball Victory

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The North Carolina Tar Heels secured a decisive 82-67 victory over SMU on Tuesday night at the Smith Center, marking their largest margin of victory against a major-conference opponent this season. RJ Davis led the charge with 26 points, five rebounds, and four assists, helping the Tar Heels improve to 10-6 overall and 3-1 in the ACC.

The Tar Heels built a 39-24 lead by halftime, fueled by strong three-point shooting and a stifling defense that held SMU to just 34 percent shooting from the field. Ian Jackson contributed 18 points and seven rebounds, while freshman Drake Powell added 17 points, including four three-pointers. Powell’s defensive versatility and offensive contributions have been a growing asset for the team.

SMU, an ACC newcomer, struggled to find its rhythm. Despite entering the game as one of the top offensive rebounding teams in the country, the Mustangs managed only ten second-chance points. Chuck Harris led SMU with 18 points, but their leading scorer, Boopie Miller, was held to just nine points on 3-for-15 shooting.

The return of Seth Trimble, who missed three games due to an upper-body injury, provided a boost for UNC. Although Trimble was held scoreless, his defensive presence and three assists were crucial, especially after starting guard Elliot Cadeau picked up two early fouls.

UNC’s defense was particularly effective in the paint, where they tied SMU 26-26 in points. The Tar Heels also limited SMU to just 3-for-16 shooting from beyond the arc, a significant factor in the game’s outcome.

The victory sets up a highly anticipated matchup against rival NC State on Saturday. The Tar Heels will look to continue their momentum in what promises to be a challenging road game. UNC leads the all-time series against NC State 166-81, but the Wolfpack won their last meeting in the 2024 ACC Tournament championship game.

For SMU, the loss marks a tough introduction to ACC play, following a 89-62 defeat to Duke just three days earlier. The Mustangs will need to regroup as they continue their inaugural season in the conference.