The Syracuse Orange men’s basketball program has created some undisputed stars, many of which went on to shine in the NBA. Coaches consider it a top notch program, and high caliber players have been desperate to play for them. Some players aren’t always completely embraced by the passionate fans in attendance, though.
It is a tough learning curve for many players; they have to get used to it if they’re to make it in the NBA or across seas. Scrutiny is fierce on a game-by-game basis, fans who bet on the NBA Finals aren’t always patient with players, and sometimes agendas can be born after a few dodgy displays. It’s sometimes tough for Syracuse players to handle, with fans getting on their backs, either making or breaking them.
The Syracuse basketball faithful are hugely supportive and get behind their team. On occasions, though, some players haven’t been as liked as others. It’s a part of any sport, and it happens nationwide. Some players turn it into a positive and use it as fuel to improve, while others crumble under the pressure. It’s also entirely subjective, as many fans don’t always agree with each other. Some players haven’t always received the same amount of love as others. Let’s take a look at some of them below.
Preston Shumpert
With a name like Preston Shumpert, it’s fair to say he always faced an uphill battle. To top it all off, though, some fans at the time were even speculating whether or not he was too old to play for the team, given his older appearance (this was before Wikipedia). Still, it turned out to be nonsense, and Preston Shumpert managed to shine on plenty of occasions. Still, some fans struggled to shake off their agendas, and Preston Shumpert didn’t always receive the love he probably deserved.
Johnny Flynn
Despite Johnny Flynn being picked by the Timberwolves, some fans struggled to see the hype. Flynn had playmaking ability, but sometimes with all the flash came turnovers and erratic play. But his smile was contagious and he played with joy. Some fans didn’t always enjoy watching Johnny Flynn in action, although they ultimately ended up eating humble pie after he was a lottery pick by the Timberwolves.
Lawrence Moten
Some fans didn’t always seem to warm to Lawrence Moten, because of some lethargic efforts in big games. He put up huge stats in his years on the Hill, and made All-Big East three times. But Moten’s tenure coincided with big expectations and some bad March losses. He played after the ’87 Final Four and before the ’96 run. Moten had the skills to pay the bills, but early exits made him a target for some team supporters.
Paul Harris
When players look like they’re in the process of throwing away the careers they’re desperate to achieve for themselves, fans don’t always take too kindly to it. Paul Harris experienced this despite the giant putting in some stellar performances on occasion. Those top-notch displays didn’t matter when he was charged with domestic violence and drug possession, though. It angered many fans. Still, in the end, it was a mistake Harris learned from, as some fans gave him a second chance and backed it up with some comical chanting.
Eric Devendorf
(Image via https://x.com/lightitupsports)
Where do we even start with Eric Devendorf? From being suspended for hitting a female student in the face to spending a night in jail after a fight in a bar, he was a loose cannon. In the end, Devendorf wasn’t drafted, which was hardly surprising.
