It’s that day and that time of the year. The day you spend with family and friends, saying thanks for everything you have. Happy Thanksgiving! As Syracuse fans, there is a lot to be thankful for when it comes to the basketball team. The season started with a disappointing opening night, but has since been turned around and shows a promising future. With so many different layers to this team, here are some things Syracuse fans should be thankful for on this holiday.
The Big Three
Syracuse has a clear-cut big three. The trio of Elijah Hughes, Buddy Boeheim, and Joe Girard has been stuffing the stat sheet and carrying the Orange. Hughes has stepped into Tyus Battle’s role from last year, being a presence on the inside and being a threat on the outside. The difference between Hughes and Battle is Hughes’s defensive skills, especially his shot blocking. As for Boeheim, he is a candidate for the team’s most improved player. The sophomore has taken a big leap from last season to this one and emerged as a leader. His pinpoint accuracy from deep is dangerous. Plus, Boeheim’s increased ball security and ability to drive has made him a dual-threat, unlike last year when he really could only shoot. Then there is the new guyРJoe Girard. The freshman has brought life to this Syracuse program and made the team exciting to watch. Whether it’s his three-point shooting, his ball distribution, or his infectious attitude and love of the game, it is hard not to love JG3. Syracuse’s big three are putting the team on their backs and their play is definitely something to be thankful for.
The Youngins
Syracuse is led by the big three, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a supporting cast. The bench and role players are have done what they need to do. The best part about them is they are all young. New faces and new names have taken over the SU roster. Names such as Quincy Guerrier, Brycen Goodine and Jesse Edwards are here to stay. Plus Girard is a true freshman, which adds another name to the Syracuse youth movement. The youngins haven’t been playing like freshmen. Guerrier has taken over the 6th man role and getting a good amount of minutes down the stretch of games. The Canadian 6.8 points and 4.7 rebounds per game off the bench. Goodine’s been given an opportunity with Carey out to be the backup point guard. Edwards hasn’t had as big of an impact, but has shown some promise to be the next SU big man after Bourama Sidibe leaves. Syracuse’s freshmen will carry this program for the next couple years, which is something to say thanks for.
Team Chemistry
Syracuse’s team chemistry seems to be at an all time high this season. In past years, the Orange have worked together, but it seemed like there was always a slight disconnect. It may have been because of the clear hierarchy of the team, with players like Battle and Oshae Brissett at the top and others on the bottom. But this year’s team is different, it doesn’t have a hierarchy. The Orange are all very even and contribute in different ways, which is leading to better team chemistry. It’s clearly visible just watching the games. There are big smiles on the players’ faces and plenty of high fives going around. Their happy attitudes are infectious. It’s hard not to be thankful for that.
Everything Else
- Jalen Carey isn’t damaging the offense or pouting that he isn’t getting any playing time.
- Syracuse alum, Carmelo Anthony, is back in the NBA.
- The Orange have a favorable non-conference schedule.
- The Syracuse football season is over after this weekend.
- Jim Boeheim is still classic Jim Boeheim in his press conferences.
