URGENT UPDATE: The Syracuse women’s basketball team bounced back from a disappointing loss with a commanding 82-72 victory over Florida State on January 5, 2023, at the JMA Wireless Dome. The Orange never trailed, showcasing a powerful performance from the opening tip-off.
Just 21 seconds into the game, Laila Phelia put Syracuse (12-2, 2-1 ACC) ahead with a jumper, setting the tone for a decisive win. The Orange maintained their lead throughout, highlighted by two dramatic alley-oop baskets that secured their victory.
Freshman center Uche Izoje was a standout player, delivering her best performance yet against a power conference team. She finished with an impressive 21 points, 17 rebounds, and four blocks. In a crucial moment with under a minute left, Izoje executed a crucial alley-oop layup from Sophie Burrows, extending the lead to 76-72 as Florida State (5-10, 0-3) threatened with a late-game surge.
Dominique Darius also contributed significantly, scoring 19 points, while Burrows added 12 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Florida State’s Sole Williams matched Izoje’s scoring with her own 21 points, but it was not enough to overcome Syracuse’s advantage.
This victory comes on the heels of Syracuse’s 20-point home loss to Duke, which had dropped them close to the NCAA Tournament cut line according to ESPN Bracketology. The win over Florida State may have solidified their position, as the NCAA’s NET rankings classify nine of Syracuse’s twelve wins as Quad 4 victories.
Looking ahead, Syracuse will face Wake Forest on Sunday, January 8, at 2 p.m. The Demon Deacons, entering their matchup against Pittsburgh with an 11-3 record, present another challenge for the Orange as they strive to secure their NCAA Tournament standing.
Stay tuned for more updates as Syracuse continues its quest for a stronger postseason position.
