Syracuse Falls to Duke in Front of the Largest Crowd in College Basketball this Season

Syracuse, N.Y.- Syracuse basketball hosted Duke, on Wednesday night, in front of 23,313 fans.

Naheem Mcleod finishing at the rim in the first half against Duke. Photo Credit: Mary Genrich

In the first half, Syracuse kept the game within reach. With eight minutes to play, Naheem Mcleod converted on a layup to cut Duke’s lead to six. 

“I thought our guys came out in the first 14 minutes and competed,” Adrian Autry said. “Then I made a decision to go to zone and [Duke] rattled off nine.”

But the Blue Devil’s stifling defense was the difference as Duke led 37-23 at halftime. Syracuse’s 23 points are their second fewest in a half this season.

The second half was similar, as Duke controlled the game on both sides of the floor. In the end, the Blue Devils defeated the Orange 83-54. 

J.J. Starling running the offense in the first half against Duke. Photo Credit: Mary Genrich

Syracuse struggled on the offensive end, shooting just 38% from the field. This was attributed to the Blue Devils’ hounding defense. Duke currently leads the conference in scoring defense, at 60 points per game.

“I think it’s their length when you talk about 6-foot-7 across the board,” Autry said. “They do a good job of making you work.” 

According to kenpom.com, Duke is second-best in the country in defensive efficiency. So while the Orange struggled to hit shots, it was not a self-inflicted wound. 

Cooper Flagg drives past Jyare Davis in the second half. Photo Credit: Mary Genrich

Although the Blue Devils dominated the Orange, Duke’s head coach Jon Scheyer said that he has a lot of respect for Syracuse and the rivalry. 

“[Syracuse] has one of the best brands in college basketball, and Red is a great coach,” Scheyer said. 

Syracuse will look to bounce back at home on Saturday in a key ACC matchup with Boston College. Tip-off is set for 3:15 p.m.