Led once again by the legendary Jim Boeheim, the Orange look to improve even more so than they did last year. Syracuse held a (23-14) record last year and even made it to the Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Tournament. If Syracuse wants to remain an elite team in the ACC, they better keep shooting higher. This team has good ground and they might just do it.
Returning Players:
Luckily for Syracuse, they return every single one of their 2017–18 starting lineup. This would include the two guards with Frank Howard and Tyus Battle, the two forwards with Marek Dolezaj and OShae Brissett, and their center Paschal Chukwu. Syracuse will lean back onto Tyus Battle and OShae Brissett to once again fire up the offense. These two combined for (32.2) points a game last year and will strive for more this coming year. Also, the advantage Syracuse has over the other teams with this amount of chemistry is undeniable and will prove to be a viable asset.
Incoming Players:
Syracuse get three new recruits this offseason that will sure help with some empty gaps. First, we have 4-star recruit Jalen Carey who might help with the inconsistency Syracuse has faced in the point guard position. Carey was the 61st ranked player in the nation and will surely build up this Syracuse team. Next, is the coach’s son with Buddy Boeheim. Some may think this was a really cheap recruitment, since his dad coaches the team, but Buddy has proven that he belongs. Buddy averaged around 16 points a game in his high school run. Lastly, we have Robert Braswell who is unranked on the recruitment system. Although he wasn’t highly recruited, Braswell’s shooting ability is blatantly obvious if you watched his film. I think Braswell is a good fit for this offensive Syracuse team.
Key Games:
Nov. 15 v. UConn – The 2K classic is always a fun set of games to watch early-on each season. It also answers some questions that sports analysts have on the oncoming season, quite early. UConn had a bad season last year, but we all are aware how fast they bounce back.
Jan. 14 at Duke – I like whenever these two match up every season. They always provide a great game that can easily go either way, regardless of record. This will be the Orange’s second road game of the season and will be a true test of skill.
Mar. 4 v. Virginia – This game is second-to-last in the Syracuse season. This also can be a deciding game for the seedings of the ACC Tournament making it that much more important. Look for Syracuse to give it their all against a traditionally good UVA team.
Projected Season:
Record: 24-7
ACC Tournament: Semifinals
NCAA Tournament: Elite Eight
Photo Credits: https://www.syracuse.com/expo/sports/erry-2018/10/d9b8ca8d5b2718/syracuse-basketball-vs-saint-r.html
