Clash at State Farm Center: Syracuse Orange to Face Illinois Fighting Illini
As the Syracuse Orange prepare to take on the Illinois Fighting Illini at the State Farm Center, fans can anticipate a game where recent trends and statistics will play a crucial role. The Orange have shown both resilience and areas for improvement in their past performances, which will undoubtedly influence their approach against the Fighting Illini.
In their most recent game, despite a strong second-half performance scoring 43 points compared to 29 in the first half, Syracuse fell just short with a one-point loss against Bryant Bulldogs. Their field goal percentage stood at 40 percent with an equal split between two-pointers and three-pointers made. However, they excelled in rebounding with 43 total rebounds and capitalized on turnovers by scoring 11 points off them.
The previous games reveal that while Syracuse has been consistent in some areas, there are fluctuations that need attention. Against St. John's Red Storm, they managed only an 18 percent success rate from beyond the arc but improved this figure significantly to nearly 39 percent against Richmond Spiders. This inconsistency from three-point range could be pivotal against Illinois.
Defensively, blocks and steals have been strong suits for Syracuse; they recorded nine blocks and ten steals in their overtime win over Richmond Spiders. However, turnovers remain a concern as they committed six player turnovers in that same game.
Syracuse's ability to maintain or improve upon these statistical trends could be key factors when facing Illinois at Champaign's State Farm Center—a venue known for its vibrant atmosphere which could influence both teams' performances.
Fans of Syracuse should look forward to seeing if their team can harness its strengths—particularly rebounding prowess and defensive plays—to secure a victory away from home.
The upcoming match is scheduled for November 30th at half-past midnight UTC (November 29th local time). Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN channel number 206.