USC defeats SMU in the first round

When the Trojans met the SMU Mustangs at home back in November they came away with a 78-73 victory. Could USC make it 2 for 2 against the Mustangs in the first round of the NCAA Tournament? The first half both teams came out running, however USC’s offense went stagnant, shooting 38.5% from the field and going 3-16 from beyond the ark. SMU’s ball movement and display of athleticism pushed the their lead to as many as 10. Bennie Boatwright found himself in and out the game during the 1st half due to foul trouble. The Trojans went into the half trailing the Mustangs 38-30.

The second half saw USC storm back into the game to tie the game at 40. SMU would go on a 10-1 run to push their lead back up to 9, however the Trojans refused to go down. USC’s first lead of the ball game came off a Bennie Boatwright three point shot. Elijah Stewart led the Trojans in scoring with 22.

USC will now face Baylor in the second round Sunday.