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Miami RedHawks Triumph Over SMU, Set for Tennessee Showdown

3/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Miami RedHawks defeated SMU 89-79 in the NCAA Tournament First Four, with 41 three-point attempts.
Eian Elmer (Miami) led with 23 points, while Bryant Byers (Miami) had 19 and Luke Skaljac (Miami) 17.
SMU had a size edge, but Miami stayed composed and overcame a brief second-half deficit.
Travis Steele (Miami) said the team is confident as it prepares to face No. 6 Tennessee.

History

Historical Context

The 1985 NCAA Tournament marked a pivotal shift in college basketball, expanding the field to 64 teams and introducing the "First Four" format. Villanova, an eighth seed, stunned the nation by defeating top-seeded Georgetown 66-64 in the championship game, a match celebrated for its high shooting percentage of 78.6%. This upset reshaped tournament dynamics and highlighted the growing emphasis on perimeter shooting in the sport.

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Story summary

The Miami RedHawks defeated SMU 89-79 in the NCAA Tournament First Four, with 41 three-point attempts.
Eian Elmer (Miami) led with 23 points, while Bryant Byers (Miami) had 19 and Luke Skaljac (Miami) 17.
SMU had a size edge, but Miami stayed composed and overcame a brief second-half deficit.
Travis Steele (Miami) said the team is confident as it prepares to face No. 6 Tennessee.

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