TCU looks to build on season-opening win against Southern

TCU will try to carry its strong opening performance into Friday’s home game against Southern. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. Central time, with the game available on ESPN+. TCU opened with a 98-59 win over Lindenwood; Southern fell 85-72 to SMU in Dallas.

The Horned Frogs made 10 of 19 three-point attempts against Lindenwood, a notable improvement on their 33.2% accuracy from beyond the arc last season. They also committed 13 turnovers, above last season’s average of 10.7, but the mistakes did little to change the result. TCU received 19 points apiece from Micah Robinson and reserve DJ Thomas. Thomas also had five steals.

Robinson averaged 10.9 points last season. Thomas, a transfer from West Virginia, made two three-pointers and all seven of his free throws in the opener. Xavier Edmonds, Tanner Toolson and Brock Harding are among the returning players expected to contribute.

Southern’s bench supplied 57 points against SMU, with six reserves scoring at least five. The Jaguars made eight three-pointers, one more than the Mustangs, but went to the free-throw line less often: Southern made 12 of 15 attempts, while SMU made 32 of 40. Southern was called for 27 personal fouls. TCU attempted 38 free throws in its opener, making trips to the line a potential factor in Friday’s matchup.