The SMU Mustangs got off to an 8-1 start to the year under their new veteran coach. But things have not been as easy for them since mid-December.
Larry Brown's squad has lost six of its last eight games, including its first two in Conference USA play.
The first game was a heartbreaker as Brown got one-upped by his former player's new team, 48-47 over Tulsa.
Pat Swilling Jr. hit a three-pointer with less than four seconds left, allowing Danny Manning's squad to escape Moody Coliseum with the win.
The shot spoiled a great comeback for the Mustangs, who trailed 34-17 at the half only to hold Tulsa to 14 second-half points. SMU took a 42-40 lead on Jalen Jones' free throws with less than 6 1/2 minutes to go and led 46-42 with 32 seconds left. But Scottie Haralson hit a three pointer with 24 seconds left, and Nick Russell missed one of two free throws, giving Swilling the chance Tulsa needed.
The following Wednesday, the Mustangs were unable to contain Danuel House and Joseph Young as the Cougars eventually wore them down to win 78-67.
SMU led 47-38 less than five minutes into the second half but then allowed a 10-0 run to give the Cougars the lead. Houston never looked back after leading 59-7 with 5:48 to play.
House had 28 points and Young scored 20. Both combined for 30 points in the second half.
SMU will try for that first Conference USA win of the year when they host Tulane at Moody Coliseum Saturday afternoon.
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