On Wednesday evening, January 21, Syracuse (12-6, 3-2 ACC) will host Virginia Tech (14-5, 3-3 ACC) at the JMA Wireless Dome for a highly anticipated matchup. The Orange have been impressive throughout conference play, averaging 78.6 points per game, which ranks as the sixth-best in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Just last week, Syracuse showcased their offensive prowess by scoring a season-high 94 points in a decisive victory against Florida State, sinking 11 three-pointers in the process.
A key factor in Syracuse’s recent success has been the return of sophomore player Freeman. He has consistently delivered since coming back from injury, scoring at least 18 points in all five games, including a career-high 27-point game against Georgia Tech. During league play, Freeman has averaged 22.2 points per game, solidifying his position as the second-highest scorer in the conference. His resurgence has also spurred teammates, such as senior Kingz, who contributed significantly in the last game with 27 points, including an impressive 5-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc. Kingz leads the Orange in three-point accuracy this season, having knocked down a total of 31 shots from long range.
Syracuse’s junior playmaker has excelled at orchestrating the team’s offense, compiling 101 assists so far, which places him at the top of the ACC with 37 assists in conference play. His recent performances include back-to-back double-digit assist games, a feat not seen from Syracuse since the 2016-17 season.
Defensively, Syracuse holds opponents to an average of 67.7 points per game while limiting them to 40.3% shooting from the field, both of which rank in the top 50 nationally. Notably, the Orange are formidable at the rim, ranking second in Division I with 7.1 blocks per game. Senior Kyle III has been a standout in this category, averaging 2.89 blocks per game and tying for third-most across Division I.
Returning to the JMA Wireless Dome after a weekend away, Syracuse boasts a home record of 9-2 this season, winning by an average margin of 13.5 points. Their home crowd has seen Freeman shine, averaging 20.2 points and 7.0 rebounds in front of fans. Kyle III has also made a substantial impact at home, contributing an impressive 3.64 blocks per game.
Virginia Tech, visiting with a strong 14-5 record, is coming off an eventful week that included a narrow loss to SMU, 77-76, and a commanding 89-76 victory against Notre Dame. The Hokies’ conference losses have been closely contested, with a combined total margin of just five points. Virginia Tech’s high-powered offense averages 82.3 points per game and excels defensively, especially against three-point shots, limiting opponents to just 28.8% from beyond the arc.
Leading the Hokies’ offense is junior Amani Hansberry, who averages 15.8 points per game and has played a key role in their success by consistently scoring in double digits. Senior Tobi Lawal has also found his rhythm in recent games, contributing significantly with a double-double against Notre Dame. Meanwhile, freshman Neoklis Avdalas has made a name for himself, starting every game and averaging 13.9 points per outing.
The matchup between Syracuse and Virginia Tech, which has seen Syracuse hold a 13-8 all-time advantage, promises to be thrilling. Last year’s contest ended in an overtime thriller, where the Hokies edged out the Orange, 101-95, showcasing the competitive spirit of both teams.
As the teams prepare for the showdown, season and individual tickets are available at cuse.com/feature/basketball-tickets, providing fans with an opportunity to witness this exciting ACC clash firsthand.