It’s getting to the point for Syracuse where Rakeem Christmas and Chris McCullough are the key cogs in the lineup, no matter who they’re up against.
In Syracuse’s win over Holy Cross, Christmas and McCullough again carried the torch at both ends. The senior center finished with a career-high 25 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks, while McCullough had 14 points, 13 rebounds and 2 blocks.
With the offense struggling to knock down shots early yet again, the Orange fed the twin towers down low time after time as they pulled away for a 39-17 halftime lead.
Showcasing a handful of impressive post moves, Christmas began to catch fire. Nearly every time down the court the senior center looked more and more comfortable with the ball in his hands. Should that keep up this season, he could carry the Orange a long way.
As for McCullough, he continues to impress. With the talk all preseason about the other freshman in Kaleb Joseph, McCullough has quietly gone about his business putting up double-doubles in every game.
Against the Crusaders, Joseph showcased his all-around game to a tune of 14 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. At times he struggled against the Crusaders full-court press, but after the break he appeared poised at both ends of the floor.
It’s a win for the Orange to build off of as the Crusaders upset then-No. 25 Harvard to start the season.
Posted:  Josh Carney
