Southern Methodist Mustangs (17-14, 8-8)
Projected starting five:
So. G Jeremiah Samarippas
Sr. G Rodney Clinkscales
Fr. G Jalen Jones
Sr. F Robert Nyakundi
Fr. C Cannen Cunningham
Important departures:
Papa Dia: 18.3 ppg, 9.6 rpg
Mike Walker: 6.9 ppg
Additions:
Three-star C Cannen Cunningham
Two-star SF Jalen Jones
% returning scoring and rebounding:
Scoring: 41.9 percent
Rebounding: 39.4 percent
Schedule highlights
Key nonconference game: at Ole Miss Jan. 3
Key conference stretch: vs. UAB Feb. 15, vs. Marshall Feb. 18
Outlook:
SMU finished last season 8-8 in conference play. The loss of Papa Dia will make improving on those results next to impossible. To have a successful season, SMU needs big production from its freshmen.