Pitt HC Jeff Capel Speaks After Blowout Loss to SMU

Panthers unravel in second half against ACC's leading offensive team

Feb. 7, 2026 at 4:55pm

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Despite a solid first half, the Pitt Panthers unraveled in the second half, leading to a blowout loss against SMU, the ACC's leading offensive team. Pitt head coach Jeff Capel spoke to the media, explaining what went wrong defensively and the lopsided second-half performance.

Why it matters

Pitt has now suffered two consecutive losses by at least 19 points and five ACC losses by double digits this season, raising concerns about the team's performance and ability to compete in the conference.

The details

The Panthers started the game well, forcing SMU into a 2-of-13 start from the field and even taking a six-point lead midway through the first half. However, after a couple of shots did not go their way, Pitt's defense suffered from a lack of effort in transition, allowing SMU to make six of their next seven shots and claim the lead just before halftime. In the second half, the game was as good as over for the Panthers as they allowed the Mustangs to shoot 70%, including a 9-of-10 combined shooting half from their starting guard duo.

  • The game was played on February 7, 2026.

The players

Jeff Capel

The head coach of the Pitt Panthers basketball team.

Brandin Cummings

A Pitt player who missed his second straight game due to an undisclosed health issue.

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What they’re saying

“Despite playing a solid first half and being down by just two at halftime to the ACC's leading offensive team in SMU, Pitt unraveled in the second half which led to the second-consecutive loss by at least 19 points and fifth ACC loss by double digits this season.”

— Jeff Capel, Head Coach (on3.com)

The takeaway

Pitt's blowout loss to SMU raises concerns about the team's ability to compete in the ACC, as they have now suffered multiple double-digit losses in conference play. The team's defensive struggles in the second half were a key factor in the defeat, and the status of injured player Brandin Cummings remains uncertain.