Syracuse, N.Y. - The Syracuse men’s basketball program found itself in the spotlight on ESPN’s "Pardon the Interruption" this week, but not for reasons fans might hope. Hosts Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon didn't hold back in their assessment of the Orange following a crushing 101-64 defeat to Duke on ESPN’s Big Monday. This loss tied for the fifth-worst in the storied history of Syracuse basketball, a program with roots dating back to 1900.
“That game was brutal,” Kornheiser remarked, highlighting the lack of competitiveness. Even Carmelo Anthony, a Syracuse legend whose son now plays for the team, was spotted in the stands, a poignant reminder of the program's former glory. Kornheiser suggested that Syracuse needs a significant overhaul, comparing their current struggles under coach Adrian Autry to Michigan's rough patch under Juwan Howard.
Michigan, once a powerhouse, stumbled during Howard's tenure, missing the NCAA Tournament for two consecutive years and ending with an 8-24 record in his final season. The Wolverines then turned to Dusty May, a standout coach from Florida Atlantic, who revitalized the program, leading them to a Sweet 16 appearance and a No. 1 ranking.
Kornheiser drew parallels between Syracuse's current situation and Michigan's past, suggesting that a similar reset might be necessary. Autry, now in his third year, holds a 49-43 record. Syracuse has missed the NCAA Tournament for four straight years, spanning the end of Jim Boeheim's era and the beginning of Autry's.
With a current record of 15-12, the Orange face an uphill battle to make the NCAA Tournament. Athletic director John Wildhack has emphasized the importance of playing “meaningful games in March,” setting clear expectations for the program's future. As the season winds down, Syracuse fans are left hoping for a turnaround that can bring back the glory days of Orange basketball.