Syracuse, NY – The Orange tops Stonehill 77–48 in nonconference finale
In its final non-conference tune-up before ACC play, Syracuse took care of business at home, defeating Stonehill College 77–48. The Orange wasted no time asserting control, opening the game on a 12–2 run behind a hot shooting start from Naithan George and JJ Starling.
The backcourt duo powered Syracuse throughout the first half, accounting for 27 of the team’s 39 points. George led the way with 14 points, while Starling added 13, as the Orange dictated the pace and entered halftime with a 12-point advantage over the Skyhawks.
Syracuse’s offensive efficiency was a promising sign heading into conference play. The Orange shot 48 percent from the field and 43 percent from three-point range, a sharp turnaround after shooting just 25 percent from beyond the arc in their previous outing against Northeastern. That improvement, paired with strong defensive energy, gives Syracuse confidence as the competition level rises in ACC play.
The second half opened unevenly for the Orange, as sloppy possessions allowed Stonehill to cut the lead down to five. However, Syracuse quickly settled in, stopping the momentum with a timely floater from George. What followed was a stretch of back-and-forth play where neither team found much offensive rhythm.
Despite the scoring droughts, Syracuse maintained control through hustle and defensive intensity, creating transition opportunities and easy baskets. With five minutes remaining, the Orange had stretched the lead to 21, effectively putting the game out of reach.
George and Starling continued their strong performances through to the final buzzer, finishing with 22 and 20 points, respectively. Head coach Adrian Autry praised George’s recent growth, saying, “Naithan George… I see him being more decisive. I thought he made plays, he was just more decisive and just getting a feel for the offense.”
Starling, who delivered his most complete performance of the season and scored his 1,000 career point tonight, credited his mindset for the breakout game. “I’ve just been coming into the game just playing and not thinking and not overanalyzing my performance,” Starling said. “Just don’t worry about making mistakes, just go out and hoop. And that’s what allowed me to have success.”
With strong guard play, improved shooting, and defensive effort, Syracuse heads into ACC play with momentum and growing confidence at the right time.