Syracuse Basketball Roster: 2019 Season Breakdown

by Jhon Lennon 50 views

Let's dive deep into the Syracuse basketball roster for the 2019 season! For all you Orange fans, this is your go-to guide. We'll break down each player, discuss their roles, and highlight some key moments from that year. Whether you're a die-hard follower or just getting into Syracuse hoops, you'll find something interesting here. Let's get started!

A Look Back at the 2019-2020 Syracuse Orange

The 2019-2020 Syracuse Orange men's basketball team represented Syracuse University during the 2019–20 NCAA Division I men's basketball season. The Orange, led by 44th-year head coach Jim Boeheim, played their home games at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse, New York as members of the Atlantic Coast Conference. They finished the season 18–14, 11–9 in ACC play to finish in a tie for fifth place. They received a bid to the ACC tournament where they defeated North Carolina before losing to Duke in the quarterfinals. Although they were considered a bubble team, they did not receive a bid to the NCAA Tournament. The season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Players and Their Contributions: The team had a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers. Elijah Hughes led the team in scoring, showcasing his ability to create shots and score from multiple levels. Buddy Boeheim, Jim Boeheim's son, also played a significant role as a sharpshooter and ball-handler. Marek Dolezaj provided valuable contributions with his rebounding and defensive presence. These players formed the core of the team and played crucial roles in both offensive and defensive strategies.

Team Performance and Season Highlights: Despite facing challenges, the team had notable moments throughout the season. They secured important victories against tough opponents in the ACC, demonstrating their resilience and competitiveness. The team's performance was characterized by stretches of strong play followed by periods of inconsistency. However, their ability to compete against top teams in the conference highlighted their potential. The team's overall performance reflected the challenges and opportunities they faced in a competitive basketball landscape.

The 2019 Syracuse Basketball Roster: Player by Player

Alright, let's get into the meat of the matter – the players who made up the 2019 Syracuse basketball roster. We'll go through each guy, highlighting their position, key stats, and what they brought to the team. Get ready for a detailed breakdown!

The Guards

  • Buddy Boeheim: As a sophomore guard, Buddy Boeheim was a key player for the Orange. Known for his shooting prowess, Buddy averaged significant minutes and contributed consistently on the offensive end. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting was a valuable asset for the team. He averaged 15.3 points per game, becoming a reliable scorer and a player who opponents had to account for. Buddy's development throughout the season was evident as he became more confident and assertive in his role. His contributions were crucial in several key games, solidifying his importance to the team's success. He shot 37% from three. Making him a threat defenses had to keep an eye on.

  • Elijah Hughes: Hughes was the standout player for Syracuse during the 2019-2020 season. As a junior guard, he led the team in scoring and demonstrated his all-around abilities. Hughes averaged 19.4 points per game, showcasing his scoring versatility and ability to create shots. He was a dynamic player who could drive to the basket, shoot from beyond the arc, and make plays for his teammates. Hughes's impact extended beyond scoring, as he also contributed in rebounding and defense. His leadership and consistent performance made him a focal point of the team's offensive strategy. Elijah's presence on the court was vital to Syracuse's competitiveness throughout the season.

  • Jalen Carey: Carey, a sophomore guard, looked to build upon his freshman year. Although his minutes varied, Jalen provided valuable depth in the backcourt. His athleticism and ability to attack the basket added a different dimension to the team's offense. While his scoring numbers may not have been eye-popping, his contributions in terms of energy and hustle were appreciated. Carey's role was to provide a spark off the bench and make plays when given the opportunity. As he continued to develop, his potential to become a more significant contributor was evident.

  • Brycen Goodine: Goodine, a freshman guard, saw limited action but showed promise for the future. As a newcomer to the team, Brycen had the opportunity to learn and develop his skills in practice. While his playing time may have been limited, his presence on the team provided valuable depth and a glimpse into the future of Syracuse basketball. Goodine's potential as a guard was evident, and his growth throughout the season was something to watch.

The Forwards

  • Marek Dolezaj: Dolezaj, a junior forward, was a versatile player known for his defense and rebounding. His contributions often went beyond the box score, as he provided valuable hustle plays and defensive stops. Marek's ability to guard multiple positions made him a valuable asset on the defensive end. Offensively, he contributed with his passing and ability to set screens. Dolezaj's consistent effort and willingness to do the dirty work made him a key component of the team's success.

  • Robert Braswell: Braswell, a redshirt freshman forward, looked to make an impact after sitting out the previous season. Although his minutes were limited, Robert showcased his potential as a versatile forward. His athleticism and ability to shoot from the perimeter added a different dimension to the team's offense. Braswell's role was to provide energy off the bench and contribute in various ways when given the opportunity. As he continued to develop, his potential to become a more significant contributor was evident.

  • Quincy Guerrier: Guerrier, a freshman forward, quickly established himself as a key player for the Orange. Known for his athleticism and rebounding ability, Quincy made an immediate impact on both ends of the court. His energy and hustle were infectious, and he often provided a spark for the team. Guerrier's ability to score in the paint and grab rebounds made him a valuable asset. As he continued to develop, his potential to become a star player for Syracuse was evident.

The Centers

  • Bourama Sidibe: Sidibe, a junior center, was a defensive presence in the paint. Known for his shot-blocking ability and rebounding, Bourama protected the rim and made it difficult for opponents to score inside. His size and strength were valuable assets on the defensive end. Offensively, he contributed with his rebounding and ability to finish around the basket. Sidibe's role was to anchor the defense and provide a physical presence in the paint.

Key Takeaways from the 2019 Roster

So, what did we learn from the 2019 Syracuse basketball roster? Well, it was a team with a good mix of experience and young talent. Elijah Hughes was the clear star, carrying a lot of the scoring load. Buddy Boeheim showed flashes of brilliance, and players like Marek Dolezaj brought the hustle and grit. While they didn't make the NCAA Tournament that year, it was a team that had some memorable moments and laid the groundwork for future success. The development of younger players such as Quincy Guerrier was promising, indicating a bright future for the program. The team's reliance on individual performances, particularly from Hughes, highlighted the need for more balanced offensive contributions.

Where Are They Now?

Ever wonder what happened to these players after the 2019 season? Here's a quick update on a few of the key guys:

  • Elijah Hughes: After a stellar season, Hughes declared for the NBA Draft and was eventually drafted by the Utah Jazz. He's been working to establish himself in the league.

  • Buddy Boeheim: Buddy continued to play for Syracuse, becoming a prominent scorer and leader for the Orange. He's since graduated and is pursuing professional opportunities.

  • Quincy Guerrier: Guerrier transferred to Oregon after two seasons with Syracuse and later declared for the NBA draft in 2021.

Final Thoughts

The 2019 Syracuse basketball roster was a team with its own unique identity and challenges. While they may not have reached all their goals, they provided plenty of excitement and memorable moments for Syracuse fans. It's always fun to look back and see how these players have grown and developed since then. Whether they're playing professionally or pursuing other ventures, they'll always be a part of Syracuse basketball history. Remembering the contributions of players like Elijah Hughes and Buddy Boeheim brings back memories of exciting games and memorable performances. The legacy of the 2019 team serves as a reminder of the passion and dedication that define Syracuse basketball.