The Syracuse men’s basketball team leaned on a season-best offensive showing to earn a 94-86 victory over Florida State on Tuesday night at the JMA Wireless Dome, improving to 12-5 overall and 3-1 in ACC play.
Sophomore forward Donnie Freeman led the Orange for the third straight game, scoring 25 points to go along with seven rebounds. Tyler Betsey delivered a breakout performance, pouring in a career-high 18 points while knocking down six three-pointers. Naithan George directed the offense with eight points and 11 assists, while William Kyle III added key energy plays inside, including multiple dunks that sparked momentum runs.
Syracuse shot efficiently throughout the night and answered nearly every Florida State surge. The Orange led 42-40 at halftime after closing the opening period on a late run, then opened the second half with seven straight points to stretch the margin. Florida State responded with multiple runs, including an 8-0 burst that briefly tightened the game, but Syracuse consistently found answers.
Freeman took control late, scoring seven consecutive points during a pivotal stretch to push the Orange ahead for good. He added a crucial tip-in with under two minutes remaining as Syracuse closed out the win at the free-throw line. Betsey’s perimeter shooting and George’s playmaking helped Syracuse withstand Florida State’s hot shooting night.
Florida State fell to 7-10 overall and 0-4 in the ACC despite multiple players reaching double figures.
GAME RECAP LINKS
- Syracuse defeats Florida State 94-86 for 3rd straight win (DailyOrange.com)
- Syracuse 94, Florida State 86: Orange hold on for third straight win (NunesMagician.com)
- Syracuse fails to put away Florida State, but holds on for third straight win (SI.com)
- Observations from SU’s win over FSU: Poor defense, George drops dimes (DailyOrange.com)
GAME HIGHLIGHTS
ADRIAN AUTRY’S POSTGAME PRESS CONFERENCE
FROM SOCIAL MEDIA
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].