**SMU Must Face Critical ACC Game Without Star Guard B.J. Edwards**
Key Takeaways:
- SMU guard B.J. Edwards is ruled out of the ACC tournament game against Louisville due to an ankle injury.
- Edwards has been sidelined for five games now, and his absence might prove pivotal in a game that could determine SMU’s place in the NCAA tournament field.
- The Mustangs have managed to win their first game since Edwards’ injury, routing Syracuse 86-69, and are hoping to extend their progress in the tournament.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The SMU Mustangs will battle it out in a defining ACC tournament game against Louisville sans their key guard B.J. Edwards today. Edwards’ continued absence due to an ankle injury could have a significant impact on the Mustangs’ performance and their path in the tournament.
Edwards to Miss Five Consecutive Games
Starting guard B.J. Edwards is reported to miss his fifth consecutive game due to an ankle ailment, as confirmed by an SMU spokesperson. Edwards suffered his injury during the game against Cal on February 25, which SMU lost 73-69. Following this, the Mustangs have experienced a four-game losing streak by the end of the regular season, emphasizing Edwards’ significance to the team.
The Season Without Edwards
Edwards, currently in his third season at SMU, has rendered impressive statistics with an average of 12.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and a conference-leading 2.3 steals per game. He has earned All-ACC honorable mention and All-Defensive team honors, establishing himself as an integral part of the Mustangs. His absence from the field, thus, has been keenly felt. Facing Louisville, Edwards’ absence is expected to have a further impact as the Mustangs aim to secure their spot in the NCAA tournament.
SMU’s Future Outlook in the Tournament
Despite Edwards’ absence, SMU has shown resilience by claiming its first victory since the injury, against Syracuse. His potential return in the later stages of the tournament, should the Mustangs advance, leaves a glimmer of hope for the team. However, an immediate challenge lies in the game against the six-seed Louisville, as a win could potentially cement their position in the 68-team NCAA tournament field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is SMU trending?
A: SMU is trending due to their starting guard B.J. Edwards’ continued absence due to injury, ahead of a crucial ACC tournament game against Louisville.
Q: What happens next?
A: SMU will play against Louisville in the ACC tournament and a win in this game could help secure their position in the NCAA tournament.
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