Syracuse Stuns No. 7 North Carolina in ACC Showdown

The Syracuse basketball team pulled off a remarkable upset, stunning the seventh-ranked North Carolina Tar Heels in a thrilling ACC showdown. This victory marks a significant milestone for coach Adrian Autry and the Orange, securing their first win against a top-ranked opponent since besting Zion Williamson’s Duke squad back in 2019.

Syracuse’s starting backcourt duo of Judah Mintz and JJ Starling delivered standout performances, combining for an impressive 48 points against the Tar Heels’ formidable lineup. The Orange’s shooting was scorching, with a remarkable 63% field goal percentage on the night.

Throughout the game, Syracuse predominantly utilized its zone defense strategy, a tactical shift influenced by some challenges in frontcourt depth. Quadir Copeland played a pivotal role in securing the victory, pulling off crucial defensive plays – including a game-sealing steal in the final moments.

As the game unfolded, the intensity escalated, with Cormac Ryan drawing a hard foul on a slippery cut to the basket. Officials reviewed the play for a potential flagrant call, highlighting the competitive nature of the matchup.

The Orange’s squad demonstrated resilience and determination, holding off multiple late-game surges from North Carolina. Exciting plays, such as Starling banking in a long 3-pointer and Copeland’s defensive heroics, defined the thrilling encounter.

Key performances from Mintz, Starling, Maliq Brown, and other Syracuse players showcased the team’s depth and talent, ultimately securing a memorable victory over the Tar Heels at the iconic JMA Wireless Dome.