UPDATE: The Syracuse women’s basketball team delivered a commanding performance, defeating Florida State 82-72 in the JMA Wireless Dome on January 12, 2023. The Orange never trailed in the matchup, showcasing resilience after a tough loss to Duke just days prior.
Syracuse (12-2, 2-1 ACC) set the tone early, with Laila Phelia scoring just 21 seconds into the game. The standout of the night was freshman center Uche Izoje, who recorded a remarkable 21 points, 17 rebounds, and four blocks. Izoje’s performance included clutch alley-oop baskets that sealed the victory for the Orange.
In a pivotal moment with 56.8 seconds left, Izoje scored off an alley-oop layup from Sophie Burrows, pushing the lead to 76-72 as Florida State (5-10, 0-3) threatened to close the gap. Earlier in the game, Izoje and Burrows connected for another alley-oop, emphasizing their synergy and crucial impact on the game.
Dominique Darius added 19 points for Syracuse, while Burrows contributed with an impressive all-around effort, scoring 12 points, grabbing eight rebounds, and dishing out five assists. The victory comes after a disappointing 20-point loss to Duke, which had placed the Orange on the brink of missing the NCAA Tournament.
“We needed this win to keep our tournament hopes alive,” said Izoje after the game.
The victory over Florida State is crucial for Syracuse, especially as they entered the game projected as one of the teams just outside the NCAA Tournament field, according to ESPN’s Charlie Creme. With the NCAA’s NET rankings reflecting that most of their wins are Quad 4 victories, this win likely helps solidify their position moving forward.
Syracuse now looks ahead to their next challenge against Wake Forest on Sunday at 2 p.m. The Demon Deacons, currently 11-3 (1-1), are poised to be a tough opponent, making this upcoming game essential for Syracuse’s tournament aspirations.
The Orange fans can take solace in this urgent victory, knowing that their team is back on track and ready to compete in the competitive ACC landscape.
