If I was cautiously optimistic a week ago — label me minimally optimistic.
The Syracuse Orange defeated the Niagara Purple Eagles, ranked 307th in KenPom, 71-57. SU failed to pull away and had to play starters all the way to the buzzer. Jim Boeheim tested his depth, experimented with a new lineup and empower Elijah Hughes on the ball more than he has all year.
Jim saw mixed results. The offense flowed in the opening minutes, with Hughes opening 3-for-7 with eight points and seven assists by halftime.