Syracuse basketball fans got their first taste of Elijah Hughes in the 2018-19 season. After transferring over from East Carolina, Hughes had to sit out the 2017-18 season.
During that time he improved his conditioning and the intricacies of his game. Hughes was allowed to practice with the team, but he couldn’t play in any games. So in those opportunities where Elijah squared up with the likes of Tyus Battle and Oshae Brissett in practice, those were his games and he gave it his all.
Former coaches and assistants raved about his work ethic and what he could be for the Orange in 2018-19.