Georgia Tech Aims to Extend Win Streak Against Struggling Syracuse
Georgia Tech heads into Tuesday’s matchup at Syracuse on a high note, riding a three-game winning streak and showcasing improved offense. The Orange, meanwhile, are looking to shake off their struggles after losing four of their last five games.
Yellow Jackets Soaring Behind Strong Offense
Georgia Tech (8-7, 2-2 ACC) is hitting its stride, especially on the offensive end. The Yellow Jackets have won their last three games, including convincing double-digit victories over Notre Dame and Boston College. Their 85-64 triumph over Boston College on Saturday saw Lance Terry and Javian McCollum each contribute 20 points, while the team shot an impressive 58.5 percent from the field and 8-of-17 from beyond the arc.
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Naithan George has been a key playmaker for Georgia Tech, notching a double-double with 10 points and 10 assists in the win over Boston College. His season average of 6.3 assists per game ranks among the top 15 nationally.
“The spacing has been really good and that’s making it easy to get as many assists as I have been getting,” George said.
Syracuse Searching for Solutions
Syracuse (6-8, 0-3) is facing its share of challenges, especially on the defensive end. The Orange allowed 90 points in their most recent loss to Florida State on Saturday, continuing a trend of inconsistent play.
Despite the struggles, Syracuse welcomed back J.J. Starling, their leading scorer at 18.7 points per game, after a seven-game absence due to a broken hand. Starling posted 12 points in his return, but he shot just 5-of-16 from the floor. Chris Bell led the Orange with 18 points, and Donnie Freeman added a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds.
Syracuse coach Adrian Autry expressed optimism about Starling’s return:
“Having J.J. back, that was probably the best news we had. He gave us an injection of energy, getting to the basket, creating for others. We just have to keep building on that.”
Recent History and Key Matchup
Georgia Tech has had Syracuse’s number recently, winning the last two matchups, including a 65-60 victory last season. The Yellow Jackets’ efficient offense, led by George’s playmaking and balanced scoring from Terry and McCollum, will clash with an Orange team trying to regain its defensive footing.
For Syracuse, limiting turnovers and capitalizing on Starling’s playmaking will be crucial to avoid falling to 0-4 in ACC play.
The contrasting trajectories of these teams set the stage for a compelling showdown as Georgia Tech looks to stay hot while Syracuse seeks to turn its season around.