Syracuse Basketball Roster: The 2017-18 Season
The 2017-18 Syracuse Orange basketball team represented Syracuse University during the 2017–18 NCAA Division I men's basketball season. Head coach Jim Boeheim was in his 42nd season at Syracuse. The Orange played their home games at the Carrier Dome 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 and North Carolina State to advance to the quarterfinals of the ACC tournament where they lost to Virginia. They received an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament as the No. 11 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.
What to Expect from a Syracuse Basketball Roster Deep Dive
Alright guys, let's dive deep into the Syracuse basketball roster from the 2017-18 season! We're not just going to list names; we're talking about understanding the dynamics, the key players, and how this team made its mark. When you look at a roster, it's like reading a story before it's written. Who are the stars? Who are the role players? And how do they all fit together under Coach Boeheim's system?
First off, understanding the Syracuse basketball roster involves recognizing the blend of talent. You've got seasoned veterans, eager sophomores, and fresh-faced freshmen all vying for playing time. Each player brings something unique to the table, whether it's scoring ability, defensive prowess, or that intangible leadership quality. Analyzing the roster helps you predict potential lineups and how the team might adapt to different opponents.
Moreover, looking at the 2018 Syracuse basketball roster specifically gives you a snapshot of that particular season's strengths and weaknesses. Did they have a dominant scorer? Were they strong on the boards? Or did they rely on a stifling zone defense? These are the questions that a good roster analysis can answer. Plus, it's a trip down memory lane for Syracuse fans who remember that season vividly.
Also, don't forget the coaching staff's role in shaping the roster. Coach Boeheim's influence is undeniable, and his ability to develop players and integrate them into his system is a crucial part of the story. The roster isn't just a list of names; it's a reflection of the coach's vision and strategy.
Finally, when we explore the 2017-18 Syracuse basketball roster, we're not just looking at the past. We're also gaining insights into how college basketball programs are built and how teams evolve over time. So, buckle up, Orange fans! Let's get into the details and relive a memorable season.
Key Players on the 2018 Syracuse Basketball Roster
When you think about the 2018 Syracuse basketball roster, a few names probably jump to mind right away. These were the guys who consistently made plays, led the team, and became fan favorites. Let's break down some of the key players who defined that season.
Tyus Battle was undoubtedly the star of the show. A dynamic scorer and a tough competitor, Battle led the team in points and was a constant threat to opposing defenses. His ability to create his own shot and knock down clutch baskets made him the go-to guy in crucial moments. He averaged 19.2 points per game that season. His presence on the court was a game-changer, and he often drew double teams, opening up opportunities for his teammates.
Oshae Brissett was another crucial piece of the puzzle. As a freshman, Brissett brought athleticism, rebounding, and a versatile offensive game to the team. He quickly became a reliable scorer and a key contributor on both ends of the floor. Brissett's energy and hustle were infectious, and he played with a maturity beyond his years. He averaged 14.9 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. His ability to drive to the basket and knock down outside shots made him a difficult matchup for defenders.
Frank Howard was the steady hand at point guard. While his scoring numbers might not jump off the page, Howard's leadership, ball-handling, and defensive tenacity were essential to the team's success. He controlled the tempo of the game and made sure the offense ran smoothly. He averaged 10.5 points and 4.7 assists per game. Beyond the stats, Howard's experience and composure were invaluable, especially in close games.
Marek Dolezaj was the unsung hero, doing all the dirty work and providing valuable minutes off the bench. His hustle, rebounding, and defensive effort often went unnoticed, but they were critical to the team's overall performance. Dolezaj's versatility allowed him to play multiple positions, and he was always ready to contribute wherever he was needed. He averaged 2.7 points and 3.4 rebounds per game but his impact was far greater than the numbers suggest.
Paschal Chukwu provided a formidable presence in the paint. His size and shot-blocking ability made him a defensive anchor, and he often altered opponents' shots and controlled the boards. Chukwu's rim protection was a key component of Syracuse's zone defense. He averaged 1.5 blocks per game. While his offensive game was limited, his defensive contributions were undeniable.
These players, along with the rest of the roster, formed a cohesive unit that battled through a challenging season and made a memorable NCAA tournament run. Each player brought a unique skill set and personality to the team, and their collective effort made the 2017-18 Syracuse basketball season one to remember.
The Impact of the 2-3 Zone Defense
No discussion about Syracuse basketball is complete without talking about the 2-3 zone defense. It's Coach Boeheim's signature, a strategy that has frustrated opponents for decades. The 2018 Syracuse basketball roster was built to maximize the effectiveness of this unique defensive scheme. So, how did the zone impact this particular team?
The 2-3 zone is designed to protect the paint and force opponents to shoot from the outside. It requires length, athleticism, and communication among the players. The 2018 roster had the right combination of personnel to make the zone work effectively. Guys like Paschal Chukwu provided rim protection, while লম্বা players like Oshae Brissett and Marek Dolezaj were able to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots on the perimeter.
One of the main advantages of the zone is that it can disrupt an opponent's offensive flow. Teams that are not used to playing against a zone often struggle to find open shots and can become impatient. This leads to turnovers and contested shots, which play right into Syracuse's hands. The 2018 team was particularly adept at forcing turnovers and turning them into transition opportunities.
However, the zone also has its weaknesses. Teams that can shoot well from the outside can exploit the gaps in the defense. Also, teams with strong post players can create mismatches and score inside. To counter these weaknesses, Syracuse relies on its players to be active, communicate effectively, and rotate quickly. The 2018 roster was well-drilled in these aspects of the zone, which helped them overcome some of their limitations.
Moreover, the zone defense allows Syracuse to control the tempo of the game. By forcing opponents to take outside shots and limiting easy baskets, the Orange can dictate the pace and keep games close. This was particularly important for the 2018 team, which often relied on its defense to win games.
The zone also has a psychological impact on opponents. It can be frustrating to play against, and teams can become discouraged if they are not able to find success early. This can lead to mistakes and poor decisions, which further benefit Syracuse. The 2018 team was known for its mental toughness and its ability to wear down opponents with its relentless defense.
In summary, the 2-3 zone defense was a defining characteristic of the 2018 Syracuse basketball roster. It allowed the team to maximize its strengths, overcome its weaknesses, and compete at a high level. While the zone is not always pretty, it is undeniably effective, and it remains a key part of Syracuse's basketball identity.
The 2018 NCAA Tournament Run
The 2018 NCAA Tournament run was the highlight of the season for the Syracuse Orange. After a somewhat inconsistent regular season, the Orange entered the tournament as an 11-seed and defied expectations by making a surprising run to the Sweet Sixteen. This improbable journey was a testament to the team's resilience, its defensive prowess, and its ability to come together when it mattered most.
The tournament run began with a First Four game against Arizona State. In a back-and-forth contest, Syracuse pulled out a narrow victory, setting the stage for a first-round matchup against TCU. The Orange dominated TCU with their zone defense and strong rebounding, advancing to the second round to face Michigan State.
The game against Michigan State was a classic. In a tense, low-scoring affair, Syracuse's defense stifled the Spartans, and the Orange pulled off an upset victory to advance to the Sweet Sixteen. The win was particularly sweet for Syracuse fans, as Michigan State was one of the favorites to win the tournament.
In the Sweet Sixteen, Syracuse faced Duke, a team led by future NBA stars. Despite a valiant effort, the Orange fell short, ending their tournament run. However, the loss did not diminish the accomplishments of the team, which had exceeded all expectations and captured the hearts of fans across the country.
The 2018 NCAA Tournament run was a memorable chapter in Syracuse basketball history. It showcased the team's strengths, highlighted the individual talents of its players, and demonstrated the power of teamwork and determination. The run also served as a reminder that anything is possible in college basketball, and that even an 11-seed can make a deep run in the tournament with the right combination of talent, coaching, and luck.
Where Are They Now? Catching Up with the 2018 Syracuse Basketball Roster
It's always interesting to see where players end up after their college careers. So, what happened to the guys on the 2018 Syracuse basketball roster? Let's catch up with some of the key players and see what they've been up to.
Tyus Battle declared for the NBA draft after his sophomore season. While he went undrafted, he's had a successful professional career overseas, playing in various leagues and showcasing his scoring ability. He's continued to develop his game and has proven himself to be a valuable asset to any team he plays for.
Oshae Brissett also entered the NBA draft and eventually signed with the Toronto Raptors. He's worked his way up through the G League and has shown flashes of potential at the NBA level. Brissett's athleticism and versatility have made him a valuable role player, and he continues to work hard to improve his game.
Frank Howard pursued professional opportunities overseas as well. He's played in various leagues and has continued to develop his skills as a point guard. Howard's leadership and experience have made him a valuable addition to any team he's been a part of.
Marek Dolezaj played professionally overseas after graduating from Syracuse. Known for his versatility and hustle, Dolezaj has continued to contribute on both ends of the floor. His experience in Boeheim's system has translated well to the professional level.
Paschal Chukwu also pursued professional basketball opportunities. His size and shot-blocking ability have made him an intriguing prospect, and he's continued to work on his game and develop his skills.
It's great to see these players continuing to pursue their basketball dreams and finding success at various levels. The 2018 Syracuse basketball roster was a special group, and their journey continues to inspire fans and aspiring players alike.
In conclusion, the 2017-18 Syracuse Orange basketball team, with its mix of talent, unique zone defense, and memorable NCAA tournament run, holds a special place in the hearts of Syracuse fans. From the star power of Tyus Battle to the defensive anchor provided by Paschal Chukwu, each player contributed to a season that will be remembered for years to come. And as we've seen, the journey didn't end there, with many players continuing their basketball careers professionally. The legacy of the 2018 Syracuse basketball roster lives on!
