SMU advances to ACC quarterfinals after defeating Syracuse

SMU defeated Syracuse 73-53 in the second round of the ACC Tournament, with Chuck Harris and Matt Cross each scoring 12 points. This victory allows sixth-seeded SMU to advance to the quarterfinals against third-seeded Clemson. The Mustangs improved their performance compared to their previous close win over Syracuse on March 4, where they needed a last-second tip-in to secure a 77-75 victory. SMU established a strong lead early in the second half and maintained control throughout the game. They shot 53.2% from the field, while Syracuse struggled, with J.J. Starling scoring 16 points and Jyare Davis adding 14.