BREAKING: The Syracuse women’s basketball team rebounded from a disappointing loss to Duke with a decisive 82-72 victory over Florida State on January 12, 2023. The game, held at the JMA Wireless Dome, saw Syracuse maintain the lead from the start, responding emphatically to their recent struggles.
Just 21 seconds into the game, Laila Phelia put Syracuse (12-2, 2-1 ACC) ahead with a jumper, setting the tone for a dominant performance. Syracuse never trailed, showcasing their resilience and teamwork, highlighted by two critical alley-oops in the final moments that sealed the win.
Freshman center Uche Izoje delivered a standout performance, scoring 21 points, grabbing 17 rebounds, and blocking four shots. Her clutch alley-oop layup off a pass from Sophie Burrows with just 56.8 seconds remaining pushed Syracuse ahead 76-72, crucial as Florida State (5-10, 0-3) closed in late in the game.
Dominique Darius also shone brightly, contributing 19 points, while Burrows rounded out the effort with 12 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. The victory helps Syracuse maintain its position on the NCAA Tournament cut line, especially after ESPN’s Charlie Creme projected them as one of the first teams out following their recent loss.
Florida State’s Sole Williams matched Izoje’s scoring output with 21 points, but it was not enough to overcome the Orange’s steady lead. The win is pivotal for Syracuse as they aim to improve their standing in the NCAA’s NET rankings, which currently categorize nine of their 12 wins as Quad 4 victories, highlighting the importance of defeating stronger opponents.
Next, Syracuse faces Wake Forest on Sunday at 2 p.m., a critical matchup as the Demon Deacons, with a record of 11-3 (1-1), seek to bolster their own NCAA prospects. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Orange look to build momentum from this vital win.
Stay tuned for updates as the Syracuse women’s basketball team continues to navigate their season and strives for a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
