Preview: Virginia Cavaliers at SMU Mustangs

ABILENE, Texas (Interstat) — A high-stakes Atlantic Coast Conference clash is set for Saturday when the eighth-ranked Virginia Cavaliers visit the SMU Mustangs at Moody Coliseum.

Virginia (15-2, 4-1 ACC) enters on a four-game winning streak, most recently a 79-70 road victory at Louisville on Tuesday. The Cavaliers’ signature pack-line defense has been stifling, holding opponents to an average of 58.2 points during their current run.

The Cavaliers are led by guard Malik Thomas, who is averaging 17.4 points over his last five games. Thomas scored 19 points in the win at Louisville. He is complemented by forward Johann Gruenloh, who added 16 points and four blocks against the Cardinals.

SMU (13-4, 2-2) looks to build momentum after a narrow 77-76 home win over Virginia Tech on Wednesday. The Mustangs’ offense, averaging 86.1 points per game, presents a stark contrast to Virginia’s deliberate pace.

The Mustangs are powered by guard Boopie Miller, who is coming off a 24-point, six-assist performance against the Hokies. Miller has been a dynamic playmaker, recording double-doubles in points and assists twice in the past month, including a 27-point, 12-assist effort in a win over North Carolina.

This matchup pits Virginia’s nation-leading defense against SMU’s potent, up-tempo attack. The Mustangs have scored 97 or more points in three games this season but face a Virginia squad that has held 12 opponents under 60 points.

Virginia’s two losses came in overtime, including a triple-overtime defeat at Virginia Tech. SMU’s four losses have all been by single digits, with three coming against Power Five opponents.

The game is part of the ACC’s schedule rotation. SMU is in its second season in the conference.

Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST. Virginia’s next game is at home against North Carolina on Jan. 24. SMU travels to Wake Forest on Jan. 20.