Syracuse: Are They For Real?

Tonight was special...

Tonight, I witnessed something so ugly it was beautiful.

Some quick facts about tonights six overtime game between Syracuse vs. UCONN:
- eight players fouled out
- 208 Field goals were attempted
- A total of 244 points were scored between the teams; SYR: 127 CONN: 117
- 93 freethrows were attempted
- 124 rebounds were grabbed between the teams

Now, on to something else.

Syracuse, did anyone see this coming? Did anyone see Syracuse being so good, even after losing one of their best players in Donte Greene?

I didn't, and likely, neither did you.

'Cuse boasts one of the most athletic teams in the nation. Point man Johnny Flynn is uber athletic, sort of in the mold of a Rajon Rondo. Paul Harris has shown why he should be considered in the NBA draft, should he chose to enter, with tonight's game (29 points, 22 Rebounds). Even guards Eric Devendorf and Andy Rautins are semi-athletic.

But seriously, who saw Syracuse beating UConn tonight? Who saw Syracuse outlasting a veteran Huskies team through six, count em, s-i-x overtimes?

Again...not me.

After watching this game I believe they have the ability to play with anyone in the country. Although in this same belief I think they could possibly lose at any moment; always looking a little too young, athletic, and nervous.

All that being said...

I now believe in these Syracuse Orange!

They have heart, and I'll take heart any day...especially when it's paired with unbelievable athleticism