DALLAS – Theresa Hagans Jr. trusts Grace Ezebilo to get the rebound. That allows Hagans to head up the floor while Ezebilo collects the miss and looks for the outlet.
Hagans described that connection after SMU’s 78-65 win over East Texas A&M on Sunday. She and Shania James had combined for 54 points, while Ezebilo finished with 10 rebounds.
The distribution of points had changed from the previous game. Against Hampton, Ezebilo supplied 18 points and 19 rebounds in a 66-54 win. Against East Texas A&M, the guards led the scoring, and her work on the glass continued.
Through three games, Ezebilo has 38 rebounds: 16 on offense and 22 on defense. The offensive boards extend SMU’s chances to score. The defensive rebounds give Hagans the possession from which to start running.
Adia Barnes described Ezebilo as a consistent worker she trusts for defense and rebounding. She also discussed her ability to switch and lift the group’s intensity.
SMU hosts LIU on Wednesday. The Sharks have been outrebounded by 12.7 per game, putting Ezebilo’s rebounding opposite another team that has struggled to secure the ball.
Ezebilo has five assists and nine turnovers through three games. Hagans trusts the rebound and outlet; SMU still has passing mistakes to reduce as it uses that connection.
Photo: SMU Athletics. SMU vs. East Texas A&M, Nov. 8, 2026.
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