Syracuse Falls to Wake Forest with Seconds to Spare

Judah Mintz #3 attempting a layup with two Wake Forest players trying to protect the basket. (Photo By: @Cuse_MBB on Twitter)

GREENSBORO, N.C. – The Syracuse Men’s Basketball Team fell to Wake Forest during the second round of the 2023 New York Life ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament. It was in the final moments of the game when Daivien Williamson shot a three-pointer for the Deacons putting them ahead by three with 0.5 seconds left on the clock.  

Syracuse came into this game having a sense of what this team brought to the table. On March 4, the Orange beat Wake Forest at home one senior night, and they were looking for a second straight win coming into the tournament. The Deacons were unmatched when it came to their three-point attempts, and they came with that same energy once again. Wake Forest would drop threes when Syracuse least expected it, and this was where they had an advantage on making those necessary shots. Five of their players scored in double digits and Williamson led the team with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists.  

The Orange struggled during the first half finding a rhythm. They were only shooting 38.71 percent field goals, 50 percent 3 pointers and 85.71 percent free throws. Field fouls and three- pointers were vital especially because multiple Wake Forest players were dropping threes left and right. Syracuse went into halftime leading by two points. The team made some huge strides but would have to maintain if they wanted to defeat their opponent to advance in the tournament.

Benny Williams taking a shot from the outside of the arc. (Photo By: @Cuse_MBB on Twitter)

Syracuse had four players who finished in double figures. Benny Williams led the team with 18 points, 11 rebounds and 5 steals. Williams was unrecognizable during this game, and he played a huge part when those extra points were needed. This was one of his best games so far of the season. Williams found a way to capitalize on his three pointers but also other shots too. Joe Girard had an uncharacteristic game with only 9 points adding, 4 rebounds and 5 assists. Mind over matter was key for the Orange especially during the second half.  

JG III dribbling down court trying to find an open player. (Photo By: @Cuse_MBB on Twitter)

The Orange didn’t struggle with foul issues during this game, it was more of them missing free throws, lay ups and three-point shots. As a team, they needed to figure out what worked for them on offense and defense. There were multiple times when the defense would leave Wake Forest wide open giving them opportunities to score. When it’s all said and done, you must play both halves of the game with 110 percent.

When one door closes another one opens. After the 77-74 loss against Wake Forest, Syracuse University announced that Jim Boeheim would no longer be the head basketball coach. Boeheim ended his 47 yearlong career as the second all-time winningest NCAA head coach. Wednesday afternoon, he achieved a total of 987 wins during his time coaching. In addition to Boeheim’s retirement, Adrian Autry will become the next head coach for the Orange. Syracuse finished the season 17-15 overall and 10-10 in the Atlantic Coast Conference.