BJ Edwards Injury Update: SMU Mustangs Face Miami (Ohio) Without Key Guard

DAYTON, Ohio – The SMU Mustangs will face a significant challenge in their first NCAA Tournament appearance in nine years, as starting guard BJ Edwards will once again be sidelined due to an ankle injury. This confirmation comes just before their First Four game against Miami (Ohio) on Wednesday night in Dayton, as reported by a source familiar with the decision to The Dallas Morning News.

Despite initial optimism surrounding Edwards’ recovery, the team will proceed without his presence on the court. Forward Corey Washington, who suffered a shoulder dislocation during the ACC tournament game against Louisville, is expected to play.

Edwards’ Absence Impacts the Mustangs

Edwards has been out of action since February 25th, when he sustained the injury in the first half against California. The Mustangs have struggled in his absence, posting a 1-4 record in their last six games. This downturn in performance highlights Edwards’ crucial role within the team.

The news is particularly surprising given SMU’s previous statement on Friday, which indicated that “B.J. Edwards is expected to return to competition and be available for the NCAA Tournament.” This led to speculation that his return factored into the selection committee’s decision to grant SMU an at-large berth in March Madness.

Selection committee chair Keith Gill commented on CBS Sunday, stating, “Six games ago, they lost one of their important players Edwards, and they’ve lost five of six of those games, but he’s coming back.” He further emphasized that the quality of SMU’s wins and the anticipated return to full strength were key considerations.

Shifting Expectations and Potential Return

However, the messaging surrounding Edwards’ return had become less convincing in recent days. SMU coach Andy Enfield acknowledged the uncertainty on Tuesday afternoon in Dayton, stating, “He’s made a lot of progress… It’s going to be a situation where if he can go, great, but we’re always going to do what’s best for the student-athlete. We feel great right now, and he looked great yesterday.”

While his availability for the Miami (Ohio) game is out of the question, there’s a possibility Edwards could return if the Mustangs advance further in the tournament. His absence is a blow to the team, as he averages 12.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and leads the conference with 2.3 steals per game. He’s a two-time ACC All-Defensive Team selection and earned All-ACC honors this year.

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For more comprehensive SMU coverage, visit The Dallas Morning News.

This article was written by Lia Assimakopoulos, who covers the Dallas Stars, SMU, and college sports for The Dallas Morning News.