Syracuse vs. Buffalo Basketball: Live Scores and Updates
The Syracuse basketball team faced off against the Buffalo Bulls in a preseason exhibition on Saturday evening. The game took place at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, starting at 7 p.m. Fans could watch the action live on Cuse.com.
Syracuse vs. Buffalo Basketball: Key Highlights
- Team Lineup: Syracuse’s starting five featured JJ Starling, Naithan George, Nate Kingz, Donnie Freeman, and William Kyle III.
- Defensive Strategy: The Orange employed a four-guard lineup, emphasizing versatility and position-less basketball.
- Early Dominance: Syracuse led 27-16 at one point in the first half, showcasing strong defensive pressure.
Player Performances
Tyler Betsey, a 6-foot-8 wing player, made significant contributions on both ends of the court. Transferring from Cincinnati, he scored multiple three-pointers early in the game. His defensive prowess was evident as he disrupted Buffalo’s drives and collected loose balls.
Carmelo Anthony’s Presence
The atmosphere intensified with former Syracuse star Carmelo Anthony in attendance. His son, Kiyan, also made an appearance, scoring his first shot during the game.
Coaching and Team Outlook
Head coach Adrian Autry highlighted the depth of his revamped roster, featuring 11 new players. His coaching philosophy emphasizes a more competitive team, aiming to return Syracuse to NCAA Tournament contention after a four-year absence.
Among key acquisitions, senior guard JJ Starling and sophomore forward Donnie Freeman stayed with the team, while Naithan George joined from Georgia Tech. Other notable signings include Nate Kingz on a one-year deal and UCLA center William Kyle III, aiming to bolster the team’s overall performance this season.
Injury Updates
Freshman Sadiq White was sidelined due to an undisclosed upper-body injury and did not participate in the game.
As Syracuse aimed for a strong exhibition, the team showcased its potential for the upcoming season during this pivotal matchup against Buffalo.