Without Donnie Freeman, Syracuse (7-8, 1-3 ACC) claimed its first conference victory of the season with a 62-55 win over Georgia Tech (8-8, 2-3 ACC), thanks to strong second-half performances by J.J. Starling and Eddie Lampkin Jr.
Georgia Tech led by three with just over 11 minutes remaining, but a clutch three-pointer by Starling ignited a 12-4 Syracuse run. This surge gave the Orange a 47-42 advantage heading into a media timeout. From there, Syracuse’s defense tightened, holding off the Yellow Jackets’ attempts to regain control and extending the lead to as many as eight points.
In the final two minutes, Georgia Tech made a late push, trimming the deficit to three. However, Syracuse responded effectively each time. With 27 seconds remaining, Starling sank two critical free throws to widen the gap to five points. A missed Georgia Tech three-pointer on the following possession allowed Chris Bell to secure the rebound and ice the game with two more free throws. The Orange maintained their lead through the final seconds, earning a well-deserved victory.
Starling poured in a game-high 21 points to lead Syracuse. Lampkin Jr. recorded a double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds. Bell netted 13 points, while Lucas Taylor added 10 points.
GAME HIGHLIGHTS
GAME RECAP LINKS
- Syracuse defeats Georgia Tech 62-55 for 1st ACC win (DailyOrange.com)
- Syracuse 62, Georgia Tech 55: Orange earn program win 2,000 (NunesMagician.com)
- Orange Edge Yellow Jackets for First ACC Win (Cuse.com)
- Observations from SU’s win over GT: Block party, Lampkin’s 2nd half (DailyOrange.com)
POSTGAME PRESS CONFERENCES
FROM SOCIAL MEDIA
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].