Improved defense the key for SMU vs. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi

Entering their second game of the season, the SMU Mustangs are looking for defense.

Offense hasn't been a problem. Three Mustang guards combined for 61 points and the team shot 56% in Monday's 96-76 win over Tarleton State. But coach Andy Enfield wants to see improved defense in Thursday's matchup with Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in Dallas.

SMU (1-0) allowed 48% shooting to Tarleton State in the first half and only won the overall rebounding battle 31-30.

"Hopefully, we'll improve, especially on the defensive end," said Enfield. " ... Not a bad effort, but we just have to clean some things up defensively."

Enfield identified stopping the dribble and cutting down on fouls (Tarleton State shot 35 free throws) as particular areas for improvement.

Reserve guard Jaron Pierre Jr. Pierre paced the Mustangs with 21 points, while B.J. Edwards and Boopie Miller added 20 each. The trio drained 23 of 26 free throws to ensure the win.

Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (1-0) opened with an 83-56 win over Division-III Trinity. The Islanders were tied 31-31 at the half, but shot 57.1 percent after intermission to pull away for an easy win.

Graduate transfer Mason Gibson led the effort with 19 points, including five 3-pointers. Guard Daniel Michelini-Jackson added 16 points, six rebounds, and six assists.

Returning forward Sheldon Williams (6-foot-8) and new addition Jamal Ambrose (6-10, 250 pounds) give the Islanders some bulk up front which could help as the Southland squad battles a high-major foe.

Things get tougher going forward for Texas A&M-Corpus Christi as it faces SMU and will also travel to No. 19 Kansas and Oklahoma State in the next four games.

"The 2025-26 schedule will challenge this new group in many ways," noted Islander head coach Jim Shaw, who led the program to 41 wins in his first two seasons.

--Field Level Media