Syracuse University is set to face Hofstra University in an exciting basketball showdown on Saturday, December 13th, at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, New York. The game is scheduled to begin at 4:00 p.m. and will be broadcast live on the ACC Network. Fans can engage with the Syracuse men’s basketball program through social media platforms, including X (@Cuse_MBB) and Instagram (@cuse_mbb).
Syracuse Looks to Continue Strong Performance
With a current record of 5-3, Syracuse recently secured a victory against Saint Joseph’s. The win was crucial as it was the first game back after over a week off. Senior William Kyle III starred in this matchup, achieving his second double-double of the season with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Sophomore Tyler Betsey contributed significantly with 16 points, matching his career-high.
- William Kyle III: 12 points, 11 rebounds
- Tyler Betsey: 16 points
- Nate Kingz: 14 points
- J.J. Starling: 11 points
- Naithan George: 10 points
Defensive Prowess
Syracuse’s defense has been a highlight this season. In their recent game, Syracuse held Saint Joseph’s to a mere 35.7% shooting efficiency, limiting them to only 64.4 points per contest, ranking 21st in Division I. This solid defensive effort includes impressive statistics:
- Field goals allowed: 198-of-521 (.380)
- Three-point shooting allowed: 51-of-176 (.290)
- Team leader in blocks: William Kyle III (26 blocks)
- Team leader in steals: Naithan George (16 steals)
Syracuse’s Home Advantage
Playing at the JMA Wireless Dome, Syracuse boasts an undefeated home record of 5-0 this season. They have excelled, averaging 75.8 points per game at home, winning by an average of 18.6 points. Their shooting statistics are notably strong:
- Shooting percentage: 140-of-277 (.505)
- Opponent’s shooting percentage: 95-of-281 (.338)
- Three-point shooting percentage for opponents: 20-of-90 (.222)
- Rebounds per game: 36.4
Scouting Hofstra
Hofstra enters the matchup with a record of 7-4, fresh off a road win at Pittsburgh. The Pride has been on a positive trajectory, winning five of their last six games, and has been effective defensively, holding opponents to 73 points or fewer in their last six contests.
- Cruz Davis: Leading scorer with 20.6 points per game
- Preston Edmead: Averaging 13.7 points and leading in assists (58 assists)
Hofstra’s head coach, Speedy Claxton, has an impressive 88-56 coaching record and has led the team to three consecutive 20-win seasons. Claxton, a former star player at Hofstra, has a rich history with the program.
Historical Context
Historically, Syracuse has had the upper hand against Hofstra, winning all three previous encounters with an average margin of 18.7 points. The last matchup between the two teams occurred in December 2006, where Syracuse triumphed with an 85-60 victory.
As Syracuse gears up for this Saturday’s showdown against Hofstra, fans can anticipate an exciting encounter. Tickets for the game are available for purchase through El-Balad.
