SMU's Edwards Injury Costs Team NCAA Bid

0:00On March 19th, Southern Methodist University snagged the final at-large spot in the men's NCAA tournament, banking on star guard B.J. Edwards being ready after an ankle injury. The committee highlighted their quality wins and expected full roster when awarding the bid. But in Wednesday night's first four match-up, Edwards sat out, and SMU fell to Miami of Ohio, 89-79. The Mustangs had stumbled lately, dropping five of their last six games without Edwards, their senior who averaged 12.7 points, five, 0.9 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. They issued a statement before Selection Sunday, saying he would be available, a move likely aimed at influencing seating since injuries factor into those decisions. Coach Andy Enfield insists there was no deception, explaining Edwards look good in practice, but just needed one more day to feel right. He called it heartbreaking, praising the players desire to play and impact on the team. Enfield maintains SMU earned their spot based on metrics and victories.

1:02In the game, SMU trailed by nine and half-time, but rallied to tie at a 50 with about 13 minutes left. Miami responded with a 13-0 run to pull away. Edwards had eyeed a potential return Friday if they advanced. Miami of Ohio now heads to the Midwest region to face 60 to Tennessee on Friday, while questions linger about how close teams cut it with. Injury updates and tournament selections.