Following an 83 to 65 loss against NC State in the ACC Tournament, things have taken a turn for the worse for Syracuse fans. Syracuse has bid farewell to Malik Brown, Quadir Copeland, Benny Williams, Justin Taylor, and Peter Carey. With Judah Mintz’s decision looming on whether to return to the team, transfer to another team, or enter the draft, Syracuse basketball is poised to have a completely revamped roster heading into the next season. Syracuse fans still should remain optimistic for the 2024-2025 season.
Photo Cred: CNY Central
Eddie Lampkin, center for UC Boulder, has announced his decision to transfer to Syracuse for his 5th season. Lampkin has shown steady improvement each season, and while his regular season statistics may not be eye-catching, he showcased his skills in three NCAA Tournament games with Colorado this season. During Boulder’s Tournament run, Lampkin averaged 15.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, standing at an imposing 6’11” and weighing 265 lbs, providing Syracuse with the size and skill they lacked at the center position in the past season.
Additionally, Syracuse is bolstering its roster with two highly sought-after recruits for the upcoming year. The first is 5-star Power Forward Donavan (Donnie) Freeman, at 6’7’’ and weighing 190 lbs. With impressive high school averages of 21 points and 8.5 rebounds, he will fill Malik Brown’s role with the team. Freeman is a proficient scorer, rebounder, and exceptional athlete capable of spreading the floor with his shooting. The second recruit is 4-star shooting guard Elijah Moore, measuring 6’4’’ and weighing 174 pounds. Moore is renowned for his outstanding three-point shooting and scoring abilities.
With standout sophomores JJ Starling and Chris Bell remaining on the team, Syracuse’s starting lineup, assuming Judah Mintz leaves, will feature JJ Starling, Elijah Moore, Chris Bell, Donnie Freeman, and Eddie Lampkin. Additionally, forward Chance Westry and center Naheem McLeod will return from their season-ending injuries and deserve playing time next season. Syracuse Basketball is poised to be significantly better from a talent perspective next season. Assuming they maintain continuity and develop good chemistry on the court, Syracuse could find themselves back in the NCAA Tournament and dominating the ACC.
