Miami makes 16 threes, beats SMU for first NCAA Tournament win since 1999 The Miami (Ohio) RedHawks advanced to the NCAA Tournament’s Round of 64 with a 89-79 victory over SMU in the First Four on Wednesday night. The win marked the program’s first NCAA Tournament triumph since 1999, when they reached the Sweet 16. The RedHawks, seeded 11th, connected on 16 three-pointers to secure the win, continuing their successful season. Guard Eian Elmer led Miami with 23 points, forward Brant Byers added 19, and guard Luke Skaljac contributed 17. The RedHawks, now 32-1, will face No. 6-seeded Tennessee Volunteers in the Round of 64 on Friday at 4:25 p.m. in Philadelphia. The game saw Miami overcome a slow start, with Elmer and Skaljac combining for 26 points in the first half. Byers also scored 12 in the opening 20 minutes, helping Miami build a 43-34 lead at halftime. The RedHawks’ fast-paced first half included 10 three-pointers, setting the tone for the game. SMU fought back in the second half, briefly taking the lead with about 14 minutes remaining. However, Miami’s consistent shooting—45% from the field and 39% from beyond the arc—kept them ahead. The RedHawks’ largest lead in the second half was 14 points. SMU, missing key guard BJ Edwards due to an ankle injury, was led by Jaden Toombs with 20 points, Jaron Pierre Jr. with 18, and Boopie Miller with 15. The game was played in front of a pro-Miami crowd, with the RedHawks’ Oxford campus located about 40 miles from Dayton. The win extends Miami’s season and marks a historic milestone for the program.#miami_ohio #smu #eian_elmer #brant_byers #luk_skaljac
