If Syracuse isn’t careful, Top-20 recruit (according to 247), Zion Cruz could quickly prove out of reach. The 5-star combo guard has notably been a high target for Syracuse, one that could potentially bring the Orange back to the success they had in the early 2010s.
Though, as the recruiting trail continues to blaze on other schools are looking more and more enticing. Notably, Auburn, who Cruz recently named his front runner after an official visit:
‚ÄúAuburn is at the top…They are at the top of my list. I love the family feel at Auburn. It‚Äôs a big family and I‚Äôm really big on that.‚Äù
Not great news for SU as Cruz is beginning to look like a long shot. The only other visit the top target has scheduled is out west to Oregon. Why does Oregon suddenly ring a few extra bells? Oh yeah…Quincy Guerrier plays there now. Probably not going to give Cruz a Five-Star review as the Canadian just transferred away.
If Syracuse wants to stay in this fight, it’ll have to really make a play, which will obviously have to come in the form of a visit, and a good one.
Say the orange don’t get Cruz though, is it the end of the world? Should all hope be lost? Absolutely not. Obviously getting one of the best players in the nation would be great, but don’t forget SU’s class of 2022 already has one of them. In fact, one that ranks 4 spots above Cruz in ESPN’s rankings. That of course is Kamari Lands, the small forward out of Indiana. And besides, there are other guys out there to look forward to. Specifically, Chance Westry, a 4-star combo guard out of Chatsworth, California. 
Westry, who recently joined Bronny James at Sierra Canyon High School has been heavily recruited by Gerry McNamara. As of right now, 247 predicts Syracuse to 100% land the 6-4 guard, if that ends up being true, it would be a great addition for the program.
If the Orange do end up whiffing on Cruz, make sure you keep your eyes peeled for Westry.
