Preview: Florida State Seminoles at SMU Mustangs

ABILENE, Texas (Interstat) — A surging SMU squad will look to protect its home court against a Florida State team seeking momentum when the Mustangs host the Seminoles in an Atlantic Coast Conference men’s basketball matchup Saturday at Moody Coliseum.

The Mustangs (14-5) enter on a high note after a 91-79 road victory at Wake Forest on Tuesday. Guard BJ Edwards has been the catalyst, averaging 18.3 points and 5.9 assists over his last seven games. His standout performance included a 24-point, 7-assist effort in the win over the Demon Deacons, highlighting his dual-threat capability. SMU’s resume also features a convincing 97-83 home win over then-North Carolina earlier this month, proving their potency in Abilene.

Conversely, Florida State (8-11) snapped a five-game skid with a narrow 65-63 win at Miami on Tuesday. The Seminoles have struggled defensively, allowing 90 or more points in three of their last six contests, including a 113-69 defeat to North Carolina State. Their fortunes often hinge on the play of guard Robert McCray, who is averaging 16.3 points and 4.8 assists over the same stretch. McCray scored 20 points with four assists and three blocks in the victory at Miami.

This contest presents a stark contrast in trajectories. SMU aims to solidify its position in the upper tier of the ACC, leveraging a balanced attack led by Edwards and supported by Boopie Miller (12 points, 6 assists vs. Wake Forest). Florida State, reliant on McCray’s creation and scoring, must find consistent secondary options and tighten its defense to compete on the road.

The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. CST tipoff on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026. Following this contest, SMU will travel to Louisville on Jan. 31, while Florida State will host California on Jan. 28.