The Syracuse Orange (4-2) get a chance to bounce back this afternoon against #15 Iowa State (6-0) in the final game of the Players Era Invitational. Iowa State has wins over St. John’s and Creighton but
didn’t win by enough points to make the final four.
The game tips at 1:00 on TNT and here’s what we’re watching for:
Kevin: Start fast, finish Strong
In a bit of a surprise, Syracuse gets another chance at a Q1 win. It’s not going to be easy, but there’s a chance to catch Iowa State feeling bad about missing their chance at a piece of the $2m bonus money. The Orange shot horribly yesterday so if they can get off to a strong start and not have to chase the game, they can leave Vegas feeling pretty good about the trip
Szuba: Halfcourt offense
No rest for the weary as Syracuse plays its third top-ten defensive team in the country in as many as. Iowa State has been one of the top defensive programs in the country the last half decade. How does Syracuse get its offense in the halfcourt? The Orange struggled in that regard against Kansas and couldn’t muster enough shotmaking from three outside of Tyler Betsey.
Dom: Backcourt bounceback
Syracuse’s best three players at guard all had mostly quiet nights in their last game versus Kansas. Kiyan Anthony was 2/12 from the field, while J.J. Starling was 2/13. Naithan George had just five points. The Orange have had a run of playing switch-heavy, versatile defenses who play with physicality. The Cyclones will be no different, and if Syracuse wants to leave Las Vegas with a signature win, it will need the backcourt to perform way better.
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Now it’s your turn, what are you watching for today?
