Syracuse Basketball: Three Questions as the Season Approaches
Mar 25, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Domantas Sabonis (11) prepares to shoot against Syracuse Orange forward Tyler Roberson (21) and guard Malachi Richardson (23) during the second half in a semifinal game in the Midwest regional of the NCAA Tournament at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
The official start of the Syracuse basketball season is rapidly approaching. Here are three big questions to consider heading into this pivotal campaign.
There’s no denying, this is one of the most anticipated Syracuse basketball seasons of all-time. This roster is loaded from top to bottom and Jim Boeheim has been borderline giddy about it.
Already one exhibition game is in the books and Syracuse got a chance to wet its proverbial beak. Boeheim showed us a little bit of man-to-man and we saw some interesting lineups.
But now what will Boeheim do with his encore performance on Tuesday night? He’s got a lot of decisions to make and it’s a good problem to have.
Who’s the starting point guard on this team? Can the real Tyler Roberson, please stand up? Plus some situational management will have to be in order this season for coach Boeheim.
Apr 2, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Syracuse Orange guard Franklin Howard (1) drives to the basket against North Carolina Tar Heels guard Marcus Paige (5) in the first half in the 2016 NCAA Men
Syracuse had a star at the Point Guard position in Michael Gbinije last season. He carried them to the Final Four and was their go-to guy all year. Now that he is in the NBA, the Orange have a question mark at the position. Jim Boeheim has a decision to make between Franklin Howard and John Gillon.
Howard, a sophomore, played in 32 games for the Orange last season. He only played 10 minutes a game, but when on the court, his offensive struggles really stood out. Howard is a great passer, but struggled to shoot the ball, as he shot a meager 29% from the field.
Gillon is a transfer from Colorado State who started in 26 games last season for the Rams and averaged 13 points and four assists. Gillon is definitely a better shooter, but Howard is an incredible passer and brings with him a defensive presence.
Both guards played 20 minutes in last week’s exhibition against the University of Indiana in Pennsylvania. Howard ended up with 10 points while also making all four of his free throws, which is a good sign for him. Gillon had a decent game as well, finishing with six points and an impressive nine assists. It will be interesting to see who Boeheim decides to go with, but as always, in Boeheim we trust.
Mar 18, 2016; St. Louis, MO, USA; Syracuse Orange forward Tyler Roberson (21) works around Dayton Flyers forward Dyshawn Pierre (21) during the second half of the first round in the 2016 NCAA Tournament at Scottrade Center. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
2. Consistency from Tyler Roberson
Tyler Roberson was an incredibly valuable asset for the Orange last season. He was a force in the paint and received national attention with his 14 point and 20 rebound (8 offensive) performance.
He’s arguably one of the best offensive rebounders in the country and has a chance to get drafted next season, pending a successful year. While he was very good last season, at times, it felt as if he disappeared on the court.
In last week’s exhibition, the senior forward was very productive, finishing with 14 points and seven rebounds, shooting 7-9 from the field. If Roberson is able to develop consistent play, him and Coleman will be an excellent 4-5 punch.
Oct 26, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Syracuse Orange coach Jim Boeheim speaks to the media during ACC Operation Basketball at The Ritz-Carlton. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
3. Managing Playtime Between the Freshman Stars
The two most anticipated players coming into the 2016-2017 season for Syracuse are Tyus Battle, a five-star recruit, and Matthew Moyer, a four-star recruit. Both players received Gatorade
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Player of the Year honors in their respective states.
Syracuse fans have to manage their expectations for both players, as Jim Boeheim will most likely ease them into the lineup as the season progresses. Battle will definitely see the court more, as
he is simply a better player. He was great in his exhibition debut, as he played 26 minutes, scoring 16 points on an impressive 4-5 from three-point range.
While Moyer played just nine minutes and failed to record any points. With grad-transfer Andrew White on the team, it is unlikely Battle will start. Battle and Moyer will add great depth and once again, it will be interesting to see how Boeheim splits up their minutes.
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