Louisville Looks to Keep the Win Streak Rolling Against Syracuse

The Louisville Cardinals are feeling themselves right now. They’re on a six-game winning streak, their longest in five years, and they’re not looking to slow down. On Tuesday, they’re heading to Syracuse to face the Orange in a matchup that pits a hot team against one that’s still trying to find its groove.

Louisville Cardinals: A Team on a Mission

The Cardinals (12-5, 5-1 ACC) are clicking. They just pulled off a gritty 82-78 comeback win against Pitt, where Reyne Smith went off for 25 points, hitting 7-of-11 from three. Smith, who’s leading the ACC with 61 three-pointers this season, has been a big reason for Louisville’s resurgence.

First-year coach Pat Kelsey has completely overhauled the team, bringing in players from winning programs to build chemistry fast. It’s paying off big time.

Coach Kelsey on the Team’s Growth:
“In today’s transfer portal era, you’ve got to figure out how to mesh your team quickly. We’ve focused on building chemistry, and it’s showing on the court.”

Syracuse Orange: Fighting for Consistency

Syracuse (8-8, 2-3 ACC) is having a rollercoaster season. They’ve had two-game win streaks, two-game skids, and everything in between. Right now, they’re coming off a solid 79-71 win at Boston College, led by their star JJ Starling.

Starling, averaging 19.8 points per game, just got back from a broken hand and dropped 26 points in his second game back. The Orange will need every bit of that firepower, especially if forward Donnie Freeman (13.4 points, 7.9 rebounds) misses another game with a foot injury.

Coach Adrian Autry on Starling:
“JJ’s everything for us. He’s our leader, and the team feeds off his energy. We’re glad to have him back.”

Industry’s Best

Handicapping Membership

Get Free Trial

What to Watch

1. Louisville’s Momentum:
   • With six straight wins, the Cardinals are playing like a well-oiled machine. Reyne Smith’s sharpshooting and their depth are tough to beat.
2. Starling vs. Smith:
   • JJ Starling is Syracuse’s spark, but can he outshine Reyne Smith, who’s been lights-out from three?
3. Injury Factor:
   • If Donnie Freeman can’t go, Syracuse could struggle against Louisville’s balanced attack.

What’s at Stake

For Louisville, this is about proving they’re one of the ACC’s best teams and keeping their streak alive. For Syracuse, it’s a chance to protect their home court and gain some momentum in a season that’s been all over the place.

Prediction

Louisville is firing on all cylinders right now, and their chemistry and scoring depth make them tough to beat. Syracuse will fight, especially if JJ Starling goes off, but without Donnie Freeman, they might not have enough. Look for Louisville to make it seven straight.