Men’s Basketball drops out-of-conference matchup to Oklahoma State
Men's Basketball drops out-of-conference matchup to Oklahoma State
The first sign of foul trouble emerged within the first couple of minutes of the game for Elijah Hughes. Oklahoma State put points on the board first. In the first two minutes of the game, the Cowboys lead the Orange 8-0.
Joe Girard got his start going to the foul line to make 2 free throws. On the next possession, the Cowboys pushed the ball down the floor, Girard slid into the lane for a quick steal, and the Orange began to spur a run of their own.
Buddy Boeheim contributed to the Orange in spurts, which kept the ‘Cuse in the game for a while but wasn’t enough to get the Orange over their hump. Elijah scored on back to back possessions helping the Orange tie the game up. He played a pivotal part in the Orange staying competitive.
“They played well but they didn’t play their best game,” said Oklahoma State Coach Mike Boyton. “They were aggressive.”
Oklahoma State’s Isaac Likekele played aggressively on defense, applying pressure on the Syracuse guards all night long. Likekele also posted his career-high in points. Boyton mentioned that he’s a different player than last year. He’s learned how to play his position at an effective and high rate.
Hughes was in foul trouble for a majority of the game, which drastically changed the approach for Jim Boeheim. Hughes was able, however, to finish with a career-high 28 points.
Point guard Joe Girard contributed, adding 12 points and 9 assists. He was able to control the floor the best he could despite being in a difficult environment and being forced to change his style of play.
Girard and Hughes were the only double-digit scorers for the Orange. Buddy Boeheim transitioned in and out the game, trying to find ways to contribute as freshman guard Brycen Goodine filled in the gaps to apply a fast-paced defense attempting to force turnovers on the Oklahoma State offense.
The Orange have a tough game ahead of them this Friday against Penn State.
is a broadcast and digital journalism graduate student and contributor to The NewsHouse.
