‘Cuse Basketball Speculations

Jake O'Connor, Staff Writer

The Syracuse Oragnemen had an unfortunate end to their season last year, losing to Dayton 55-53 in the round of 32. Many of you are wondering who’s back for Jim Boeheim? Are the Orangemen even good? Is a #1 ranked seed even possible?

Jim Boeheim has many features to his team that will possibly bring them to #1 in the nation. Not only does he have returning players that should help this year, but he has new recruits coming in next year to help out.

Next year, Syracuse will have Malachi Richardson, a 6’5’’ guard from Trenton, N.J.

Also, Moustapha Diagne, a 6’9’’ forward from Sparta, N.J.

Tyler Lydon, a 6’9’’ forward from Pine Plains, N.Y.

Frank Howard, a 6’6’’ guard from Fairfax, Va.

Syracuse is lucky to have the 2nd best recruiting class in the nation coming in next season. SU is only behind Arizona in early recruiting rankings, but what about this season?

The leaders on the team are dwindling since Tyler Ennis and Jerami Grant are gone. The leaders of the team  will consist of Trevor Cooney and Rakeem Christmas. Trevor Cooney was always a big factor, as he lead the team in 3 pointers while averaging 12 points a game. Christmas will have to step up as well.  He averaged  5.1 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game in his sophomore year. That’s not bad for only 20 minutes of playing. Boeheim has stated he has a big plans for Christmas this year.

So, what are the Weedsport expectations for the Cuse this year?

Social Studies teacher, Mr.Smith said, “I think they’re going to struggle because Syracuse will be unable to keep up with the other talents of the ACC.”

Senior, Hunter Bowden commented that, “Cooney is an animal and he can knock down any 3pt from anywhere on the court. He will lead them to a #1 seed, mark my words.”

Health teacher, Mr. Sgarlata added, “I expect to always be at the top of the ACC and a high seed at the NCAA  tournament, and for SU, it’s championship or bust.”

Weedsport’s hopes are high for Syracuse basketball this year.