Syracuse Basketball Roster 2018: Players And Stats

The 2017-2018 Syracuse Orange men's basketball team represented Syracuse University during the 2017–18 NCAA Division I men's basketball season. Jim Boeheim was in his 42nd year as head coach. The Orange played their home games at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse, New York as members of the Atlantic Coast Conference. They finished the season 23–14, 8–10 in ACC play to finish in a tie for tenth place. They defeated Wake Forest, North Carolina, and Duke to advance to the semifinals of the ACC Tournament where they lost to Virginia. They received an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament as the eleventh seed in the Midwest region. They defeated Arizona State in the First Four, TCU in the First Round, and Michigan State in the Second Round before losing to Duke in the Sweet Sixteen.

Exploring the 2018 Syracuse Basketball Team

Hey guys! Let's dive into the Syracuse basketball roster from 2018! This was a pretty interesting year for the Orange, and understanding who was on the team, and how they performed, gives us a real insight into their season. We're going to break down the key players, their stats, and what made this team tick. So, if you're a Syracuse fan, or just curious about college basketball history, you're in the right place!

First off, the Syracuse basketball roster 2018 was coached by the legendary Jim Boeheim, who, as we all know, has been a cornerstone of the program for decades. This particular season had its ups and downs, but there were some standout players who really defined the team's performance. Understanding the team composition helps us appreciate the strategies and the outcomes of their games.

The team's success hinged on a mix of experienced players and fresh talent. The veterans provided leadership and stability, while the newcomers brought energy and potential. For instance, players like Tyus Battle were crucial in leading the offense. His scoring ability and decision-making were vital in close games. Having a go-to scorer is always a massive advantage in college basketball, and Battle definitely fit that role.

Also, guys like Oshae Brissett brought versatility to the team. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor made him an invaluable asset. Brissett's energy and hustle were often game-changers, providing a spark when the team needed it most. Beyond just scoring, his rebounding and defensive presence were key factors in many of their wins. Every team needs a player like that, someone who does all the little things that don't always show up in the box score but are crucial for success.

Furthermore, the contributions from role players such as Frank Howard and Marek Dolezaj cannot be overlooked. Howard's playmaking and Dolezaj's defensive tenacity added depth and balance to the roster. These players may not have always been in the spotlight, but they consistently provided solid performances that were essential to the team's overall success. Their ability to step up when needed allowed the starters to play with confidence, knowing they had reliable support on the bench. It truly was a team effort!

Key Players and Their Impact

Let’s zoom in on some of the key players from the Syracuse basketball roster 2018 and talk about the impact they had on the court. Identifying these players helps us understand where the team's strengths and weaknesses were, and how they managed to compete in a tough ACC conference. These are the guys that fans remember and opponents feared! So, let’s get into the details.

Tyus Battle was undoubtedly one of the stars of the team. As a sophomore, he led the Orange in scoring and was a consistent offensive threat. His ability to create his own shot and score from anywhere on the court made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Battle's scoring prowess not only helped Syracuse win games but also opened up opportunities for his teammates. When he was on, the entire team seemed to play with more confidence. He definitely had that star quality that every team hopes for.

Oshae Brissett, a freshman, quickly became a fan favorite with his versatility and athleticism. He contributed in multiple ways, from scoring and rebounding to playing tough defense. Brissett's energy and hustle were infectious, and he often made key plays that swung the momentum in Syracuse's favor. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor made him an invaluable asset to the team. He showed so much promise as a freshman, and it was exciting to watch him develop throughout the season. He was one of those players that you just knew was going to be special.

Frank Howard, as the team's point guard, played a crucial role in running the offense and distributing the ball. While his scoring numbers might not have been as eye-popping as Battle's, his playmaking and decision-making were essential to Syracuse's success. Howard's ability to control the tempo of the game and make smart passes helped the Orange execute their offensive sets effectively. A good point guard is like the quarterback of a football team, and Howard filled that role admirably.

Marek Dolezaj brought toughness and defensive intensity to the team. Although he wasn't a prolific scorer, his rebounding and defensive presence were vital, especially in the interior. Dolezaj's willingness to do the dirty work and battle for rebounds made him a valuable role player for the Orange. Every team needs a guy who's willing to sacrifice his body and do the little things that don't always show up in the box score. Dolezaj was that guy for Syracuse.

Season Highlights and Key Games

Let's reminisce about some of the season highlights and key games for the Syracuse basketball roster 2018. These moments really defined their season and gave us some unforgettable memories. From thrilling victories to tough losses, these games tell the story of the team's journey. Who can forget those nail-biting finishes and incredible performances? Let’s dive in and relive some of the best moments!

One of the biggest highlights of the season was their run in the NCAA Tournament. As an 11-seed, the Orange defied expectations by making it all the way to the Sweet Sixteen. This improbable run included impressive wins over teams like TCU and Michigan State. The team's resilience and determination were on full display during the tournament, and it was a testament to their hard work and preparation. It's always exciting to see a team exceed expectations in March Madness, and Syracuse certainly did that in 2018.

Their first-round win against TCU was a classic example of Syracuse's defensive prowess. The Orange held the Horned Frogs to well below their season average in points, showcasing their ability to lock down opponents. This victory was a statement that Syracuse was not just happy to be in the tournament; they were there to compete and make some noise. It was a gritty, hard-fought win that set the tone for their entire tournament run. Everyone loves an underdog story, and Syracuse was definitely playing that role.

Another memorable game was their second-round matchup against Michigan State. In a back-and-forth contest, Syracuse pulled out a thrilling victory thanks to clutch performances from Tyus Battle and Oshae Brissett. This win was a huge confidence booster for the team, proving that they could compete with some of the best teams in the country. Beating a team like Michigan State in the NCAA Tournament is a significant accomplishment, and it showed that Syracuse was a force to be reckoned with.

Of course, their Sweet Sixteen game against Duke was a tough loss, but it was still a memorable experience for the team and their fans. Despite the defeat, the Orange showed that they could hang with one of the top teams in the nation. This game was a valuable learning experience for the younger players, and it provided a foundation for future success. Even in defeat, there were positives to take away from the game.

Analyzing the Team's Performance and Stats

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty and analyze the performance and stats of the Syracuse basketball roster 2018. Looking at the numbers gives us a deeper understanding of the team's strengths, weaknesses, and overall effectiveness. Stats don't lie, as they say! So, let’s crunch some numbers and see what they reveal about this Syracuse team.

As mentioned earlier, Tyus Battle led the team in scoring, averaging a team-high 19.2 points per game. His scoring ability was a major factor in Syracuse's offensive success. A player who can consistently put up points is invaluable in college basketball, and Battle certainly delivered in that regard. His offensive production was a key reason why Syracuse was able to compete with some of the top teams in the ACC and the nation.

Oshae Brissett was second on the team in scoring, averaging 12.7 points per game, and he also led the team in rebounding with 8.8 boards per contest. His versatility and ability to contribute in multiple categories made him a valuable asset for the Orange. A player who can score, rebound, and play defense is a coach's dream, and Brissett certainly fit that mold.

Frank Howard averaged 10.7 points and 4.7 assists per game, showcasing his ability to both score and distribute the ball. His playmaking was crucial to Syracuse's offensive flow, and he often made key passes that led to easy baskets. A good point guard is essential for any successful team, and Howard played that role effectively for the Orange. He was the engine that made the offense go.

Defensively, Syracuse was known for its 2-3 zone, which has been a staple of Jim Boeheim's coaching philosophy for decades. The Orange used their length and athleticism to disrupt opponents' offenses and force turnovers. Their zone defense was often difficult to penetrate, and it was a key factor in their success. Teams that struggled to shoot from the outside often had a tough time against Syracuse's zone. It’s a classic defensive scheme that has been a hallmark of Syracuse basketball for years.

In terms of overall team stats, Syracuse averaged 67.3 points per game while allowing 65.3 points per game. Their scoring margin of +2.0 indicates that they were a competitive team that typically played close games. A team that can consistently outscore its opponents, even by a small margin, is usually in a good position to win games. Every point matters in college basketball!

Where Are They Now?

Finally, let's take a quick look at where some of the key players from the Syracuse basketball roster 2018 are now. It's always interesting to see what these players have gone on to do after their time at Syracuse, whether they're playing professionally or pursuing other careers. Let's catch up with some familiar faces!

Tyus Battle declared for the NBA Draft after his sophomore season and eventually played professionally overseas and in the G League. His scoring ability made him an attractive prospect, and he has continued to develop his game at the professional level. Many college stars dream of playing in the NBA, and Battle has worked hard to pursue that goal.

Oshae Brissett also declared for the NBA Draft after his freshman season and has since played in the NBA, showcasing his versatility and athleticism. His ability to contribute in multiple ways has made him a valuable role player at the highest level of basketball. It's always great to see former college players succeed in the NBA, and Brissett has certainly done that.

Frank Howard has played professionally overseas, continuing his basketball career after graduating from Syracuse. His playmaking and leadership skills have translated well to the professional game, and he has continued to develop as a player. Many college players find success playing professionally overseas, and Howard has followed that path.

Marek Dolezaj has also pursued a professional basketball career, playing overseas and showcasing his defensive intensity and rebounding ability. His toughness and willingness to do the dirty work have made him a valuable asset to his teams. It's always great to see players who may not have been stars in college find success at the professional level, and Dolezaj has certainly done that.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! A deep dive into the Syracuse basketball roster 2018. From key players and season highlights to stats and where they are now, we've covered it all. This team had a memorable season, and their journey is a testament to their hard work and determination. Whether you're a die-hard Syracuse fan or just a college basketball enthusiast, there's no doubt that this team left its mark. Thanks for joining me on this trip down memory lane!