SMU Outlasts Texas A&M in Overtime Showcase at Hoop Hype XL (Copy)
SMU and Texas A&M delivered a December classic at the Hoop Hype XL event in Arlington, with the Mustangs emerging victorious in a thrilling 93–80 overtime decision on December 7, 2025. The matchup between two Texas programs featured wild momentum swings, star-powered shot-making, and an extra period that completely flipped the script.
How the Battle Unfolded
SMU Controls Early
The Mustangs wasted no time establishing authority, building a 41–27 advantage at the break behind strong outings from Jaron Pierre Jr. and Samet Yigitoglu. Pierre continued to score with ease early in the second half, stretching the lead to 49–34 as SMU appeared poised to pull away for good.
Aggies Ignite After Halftime
Texas A&M, finally at full strength for the first time this season, found new life after the break. Marcus Hill fueled a furious rally — scoring 16 of his 25 points in the second half — as the Aggies clawed their way back into contention. With just over a minute to play, a 7–0 surge lifted A&M to a 77–73 lead.
But SMU refused to fold. B.J. Edwards hit clutch free throws, and Pierre knocked down a critical jumper with 25 seconds remaining to send the game into overtime tied at 77.
Overtime: Total Mustang Takeover
Once the extra period tipped, the Mustangs seized control immediately. Pierre drilled five straight points to open OT, and SMU never looked back. A&M’s offense collapsed at the worst possible moment — the Aggies missed all 11 of their field-goal attempts in overtime — while SMU rolled to a 16–3 scoring advantage in the extra session.
Standout Performers
SMU
Jaron Pierre Jr.: 35 points (13-21 FG, 6-6 FT), clutch in regulation and OT alike
Boopie Miller: 19 points, perfect 10-for-10 at the stripe, plus six boards and four assists
Corey Washington: 14 points, physical finishing throughout
Samet Yigitoglu: 12 points, eight rebounds before fouling out
B.J. Edwards: Near triple-double — nine points, 11 rebounds, nine assists — impact everywhere
Texas A&M
Marcus Hill: 25 points, primary catalyst of the Aggies’ rally
Rashaun Agee: 13 points, 11 rebounds — his third straight double-double
Free-throw issues and cold perimeter shooting (1-for-18 from deep in the first half) ultimately doomed A&M.
A Platform Bigger than Basketball
Hoop Hype XL, presented by United Sports & Entertainment, blends marquee basketball events with community engagement. The North Texas showcase gives programs national TV visibility — this matchup aired on ESPN2 — while promoting service opportunities that impact underserved populations locally.
With an in-state ACC vs. SEC duel staged on a neutral floor, the crowd atmosphere rivaled true rivalry intensity.
Renewing a Long-Standing Series
Dating back to 1951, these programs have now met 105 times. Texas A&M held the edge entering the game and had won eight of the previous ten matchups — including a 2023 victory — making this SMU win both historic and symbolic as the rivalry continues under new conference banners.
What the Result Means Moving Forward
SMU: A Contender Taking Shape
Now 9–1 on the season, the Mustangs look every bit the threat Andy Enfield envisioned when he took over. Their scoring balance, defensive improvement, and proven late-game poise give them the look of a serious ACC challenger — and an NCAA Tournament mainstay.
This win becomes a résumé gem, especially at a neutral site against an SEC opponent. If SMU sustains its level of play, March could be exciting in Dallas.
Texas A&M: Lessons Amid Progress
First-year head coach Bucky McMillan’s high-tempo system is beginning to find rhythm. Despite offensive inconsistency, the Aggies have demonstrated the ability to rally and compete with top-tier teams.
To survive a brutal SEC stretch, improved three-point accuracy and late-game execution will be essential. With a now-healthy roster, better days are likely ahead.
The Takeaway
This contest had everything fans crave: comebacks, lead changes, star power, and overtime drama. Pierre’s brilliant scoring display and Edwards’ all-around performance powered SMU to a defining early-season victory, while Hill’s effort underscored A&M’s potential ceiling.
Two Texas teams with different trajectories — both aiming at postseason play — showcased why the state remains a powerhouse in college basketball. And with community impact woven into competition, Hoop Hype XL delivered a win far beyond the box score.
As conference play approaches, remember this night — it could mark the beginning of something big for both squads.
