Mustangs trampled by Red Raiders, 105-67

The SMU Mustangs (2-2) took on the Texas Tech Red Raiders (3-1) in Lubbock Wednesday night.

The Mustangs struggled from the onset of the game, with scrawny defense and costly turnovers, easily handing Texas Tech the victory, 105-67.

The Red Raiders came out hard and strong from the first possession of the game. It was apparent from Tech’s intensity it was going to be a long night for SMU. Texas Tech ran all over SMU from start to finish, and a weak Mustang defense let the Red Raiders pull out to a 48-24 lead by the end of the first half.

“They were a lot more physical [at the start] and that’s what set the tone for the game” Coach Jimmy Tubbs said.

The Texas Tech offense seemed to know exactly where to go to avoid the Mustang defense and was ready and waiting to pulverize SMU on the other side of the court.

Tech scored 36 points from turnovers, with forward Devonne Giles leading Tech’s offense with six-of-10 on field goals. He also contributed six successful free throws. Tech outscored SMU on second chance points 25-10, and points in the paint 46-28.

Coach Tubbs emphasized the importance of man-to-man defense but said, “We weren’t very good on that tonight.”

Texas Tech used the home game to their advantage and showed tremendous amounts of confidence throughout.

“Not to knock down on SMU, but we feel like we should be winning these games,” said senior guard Ronald Ross, who had 15 points and two rebounds.

Bryan Hopkins failed to impress yet again, not scoring in the first half, despite playing for 11 minutes.

At the end of the second half, however, Hopkins started being aggressive on the drive and eventually went five-of-14 on field goals and two-of -eight on three-point attempts in 24 minutes of play.

Senior Justin Isham led SMU scoring with 16 points and also had a block and a steal. Devon Pearson performed well off the bench, contributing 12 points and two blocks, while only committing two turnovers.

The SMU Mustangs return to Moody Coliseum to take on the Texas State Bobcats (2-1) on Saturday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m.