After two exhibition wins against Buffalo and Pace, Syracuse hosts Binghamton to open the regular season tomorrow. The Orange hit the court after last year’s 14-19 campaign, SU’s worst record since 1967. Led by returnees Donnie Freeman and J.J. Starling, SU tries to bounce back from their 2024 struggles and do something that has not been achieved since 2021: make the NCAA the tournament. But 3 things have to happen for Syracuse to make the postseason.
1: The 1-2 punch
It’s no secret that for Syracuse to be good, forward Donnie Freeman and guard J.J. Starling must be excellent on both sides of the ball. The dynamic duo averaged a combined 31 points last season for the Orange, and surprised many when they decided to stay at Cuse. Despite leading Syracuse in scoring, the two played just 7 games together. While simple, the key for Freeman is just staying healthy. The Sophomore played in only 14 games, sustaining a season ending right-hand injury against Florida State. Starling and Freeman bring leadership, proven scoring, and most important, versatility. The two returnees were seen at every position in 2024, with Starling getting some time at the Point Guard, and Freeman exposing opposing defensive flaws with his ability to stretch the floor.
2: Defense wins games
Syracuse’s defense was awful in 2024, allowing the most points in the ACC. Head Coach Aidrean Autry was clear that such struggles were not allowed, setting aside 6 weeks of camp to focus purely on the defensive side of the ball. In the offseason, Cuse improved their defense with the addition of Freshman Sadiq White. The highly touted 5-star brings a strong mentality and has the speed and athleticism to lock up any guard in the country. Other key additions to help bulk up SU’s defense include Naithan Goerge. The Georgia Tech transfer has elite size and thrives on the glass.
3: Bench
While Donnie Freeman and J.J. Starling acts as the headliner for the Orange, Syracuse has many different scoring options at their disposal including Naithan George. In his two seasons with the Yellow Jackets, George averaged 11 points and shot the ball well from distance. Freshmen Kiyan Anthony and Sadiq White can also connect from 3, while also extending the court and using their speed to drive to the basket. Last season, only 3 players averaged double digits for Syracuse. That is destined to change in 2025.
Syracuse faces Binghamton on Monday night in the JMA Dome
