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Miami (Ohio) Upsets SMU for First Tournament Win in 27 Years

3/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Miami (Ohio) RedHawks defeated SMU Mustangs 89-79 in the First Four of the 2026 NCAA Tournament, their first tournament win in 27 years.
Eian Elmer of the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks scored 22 points, including six three-pointers.
The victory advances the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks to face the sixth-seeded Tennessee Volunteers in the next round.
Head coach Travis Steele emphasized the win's significance for mid-major programs.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA Tournament expanded to 65 teams in 1999, enhancing opportunities for mid-major programs like Miami (Ohio). This shift allowed teams to gain visibility and compete against larger schools, reflecting evolving dynamics in college basketball. Miami's recent victory over SMU, its first in 27 years, underscores the ongoing challenges and successes of mid-major teams in the tournament landscape.

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Story summary

Miami (Ohio) RedHawks defeated SMU Mustangs 89-79 in the First Four of the 2026 NCAA Tournament, their first tournament win in 27 years.
Eian Elmer of the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks scored 22 points, including six three-pointers.
The victory advances the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks to face the sixth-seeded Tennessee Volunteers in the next round.
Head coach Travis Steele emphasized the win's significance for mid-major programs.

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