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Syracuse’s 69-64 defeat at Notre Dame revealed some critical areas for improvement as well as some silver linings. Here are three key takeaways from the game:
### 1. **Late-Game Struggles**
Syracuse had opportunities to secure the win but faltered in the closing minutes. After leading by five points with under four minutes to play, turnovers and missed shots allowed Notre Dame to surge ahead. Poor decision-making under pressure, including rushed offensive possessions and defensive lapses, cost the Orange a chance to seal the game. This late-game inconsistency has been a recurring issue, highlighting the need for stronger composure and leadership in crunch time.
### 2. **Inconsistent Perimeter Defense**
Notre Dame’s three-point shooting played a pivotal role in their victory. The Fighting Irish shot 38% from beyond the arc, with several key makes coming at critical junctures. Syracuse’s 2-3 zone struggled to close out on shooters, leaving open looks for Notre Dame’s perimeter players. While the Orange defense forced turnovers and disrupted drives, the inability to guard the three-point line consistently proved costly. This defensive vulnerability is something Syracuse must address moving forward.
### 3. **Bright Spots on Offense**
Despite the loss, Syracuse had some encouraging performances on offense. Judah Mintz continued to showcase his scoring ability, leading the team with 18 points and displaying a knack for getting to the basket. Jesse Edwards also had a solid outing, contributing 12 points and 9 rebounds, anchoring the team in the paint. However, the Orange’s reliance on isolation plays and their struggles to convert open shots (particularly from three-point range) limited their effectiveness. Moving forward, Syracuse needs better ball movement and more balanced scoring to avoid being predictable.
### Final Thoughts
While the loss is disappointing, it also highlighted areas where Syracuse can improve. Addressing late-game execution, tightening up their perimeter defense, and finding offensive rhythm will be crucial as the season progresses. Coach Adrian Autry and his staff have the tools to make adjustments, and the team’s resilience will be tested in the coming games. If Syracuse can learn from these setbacks, they’ll be better positioned for success in the competitive ACC.
