In one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the Syracuse season, the #2 Orange took out UNC 57-45 in front of 32,000 at the Dome.
Syracuse is still perfect at 16-0 and Jerami Grant was the man who played a big role. The sophomore continues to fill in for DaJuan Coleman beautifully (Coleman is working his way back from an injury). Grant posted a thoroughly efficient 12 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. It was his defensive contribution that rally helped Syracuse seal the W.
Coleman has disappointed many fans during his time at Syracuse and now with Grant in, the Orange is getting more of a defensive contribution. Even with Coleman in the lineup, Syracuse is a national championship contender. But Grant can do so much, and has become a critical piece of the puzzle. Not only can he hit the mid-range jumper, but he always plays solid defense. He wasn’t in foul trouble either, which is a common problem for Coleman.
Rakeem Christmas also played solid defense and although the hopes offense impact have disappeared, his D continues to improve. Some days are better, but now the Orange know what to get out of him.
Another opponent, another victory. While the Tar Heels are Jekyll and Hyde, they have some really impressive wins this season. Louisville, Michigan State and Kentucky have all been beaten by UNC. Syracuse’s victory – and the ease in which it happened – is another bench mark for this team. Feels like we’re sitting on a a pretty special Orange team this year.
Posted: Austin Pollack
