A challenging non-conference schedule for Syracuse men’s basketball in 2024-25 got even harder yesterday, when Syracuse announced that Maryland will be its opponent at the Gotham Classic at the Barclays Center on Dec. 21.
The Orange now have at least three, with the possibility of four, power conference opponents on its 2024 non-conference schedule. Syracuse will travel to Tennessee for the ACC/SEC challenge. It will additionally play Texas and/or Texas A&M during the Legends Classic, also at the Barclays Center.
While all of these games will be big for Syracuse’s tournament chances, the Maryland match may end up being the most important.
First off, it’s important to look at the timing of the matchup. The game is being played on December 21. Last year, the Orange played its final non-conference game on the same day. While in 2024, Syracuse will have one more non-conference game against Bucknell on Dec. 28, this is likely SU’s final major test before ACC play.
Having a good confidence boosting win before facing the gauntlet that is the ACC would be huge for Syracuse.
And while Syracuse and Maryland are not quite rivals on the court, the two east coast squads are often going for the same recruits. Especially with Adrian Autry and his coaching staff, the DMV area has been a hot spot. While winning one game isn’t going to totally sway a recruit, it shows a good baseline of success.
Syracuse has dominated the series as of recent, winning four straight against the Terrapins concluding with their last meeting in 2017. But Maryland still has the edge all-time 5-4, and have a good squad for 2024-25. Julian Reese nearly averaged a double-double last year and returns. But the loss of Jamir Young to graduation will be a big piece for the Terrapins to replace.
While there’s still lots to take place between now and December, this game has all the makings of a fun holiday break clash between two teams who declined NIT bids in 2024 and have a chance of dancing in 2025.
