Optimism is ok
The Syracuse Orange men’s basketball program has in the midst of the worst stretch in the program’s modern history, and fans are understandably restless.
After Syracuse’s season ended in the ACC Tournament, Head Coach Adrian Autry refused to answer a question about optimism for next season.
Frustration about the season or not, it was a bad look for Autry to pass on answering the question, especially when it was tossed up for him to say something to the fans to provide hope. We’re not asking him to be Fran Brown, but most of us want to see him succeed, so since he wouldn’t do it, here’s some reasons for hope Orange fans.
The return of JJ Starling and Donnie Freeman gives Syracuse two players who can compete at this level. Yes, they have flaws, but they give Autry a couple of scorers to build around. Freeman showed an ability to be one of the better rebounders in the ACC and Starling showed multiple times that he can get to the rim, even with opponents focusing heavy attention on him. It also sends a message that the players still have faith in the staff, and that’s a good sign after the terrible season.
The incoming class is ranked in the top 25 and features players who might not be superstars right away, but players who fill a need for Syracuse. Sadiq White’s reputation as a tenacious defender and athlete will pair nicely with Freeman’s perimeter offense. Kiyan Anthony has emerged as a scorer and play-maker and can provide a scoring spark off the bench. Luke Fennell is a tall guard who has drawn the attention of NBA draft experts and Aaron Womack might be a throwback to the athletic wings of better Syracuse teams, one who develops into a solid contributor.
NEWS: Luke Fennell, a 6’6 Australian guard, has committed to Syracuse, he told ESPN. Fennell, a two-time gold medalist with Australia’s U18 national teams, brings size, playmaking creativity and shot-making prowess to the Orange at both guard spots in the class of 2025. pic.twitter.com/AdaLfvscPS
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) October 23, 2024
There is still a lot of work to be done in the transfer portal and the coaching staff has to show some better in-game adjustments, but there is a roster forming that could deliver a style of play Autry has talked about since his promotion. It’s not asking too much to tell fans to picture an energized JMA Dome reacting to a fast-break dunk that brings Carmelo Anthony out of his courtside seat.
We’ve had a long period of negativity and there’s nothing wrong with trying to find a bit of hope to get excited about a return to some fun on Jim Boeheim Court.