Syracuse basketball is gearing up for an intriguing 2026-27 season under new head coach Gerry McNamara. One of the highlights will be a matchup against Indiana on November 9 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. While it's technically a neutral-site game, playing in Indy certainly adds an interesting twist.
Last season, Syracuse struggled with a 15-17 record, leading to the departure of head coach Adrian Autry and the arrival of McNamara. Indiana also faced challenges, finishing 18-14 and missing out on the NCAA Tournament after a tough end to their season.
Historically, Syracuse holds a 6-1 advantage over Indiana, but that one loss still stings. It was the 1987 national championship game, where Keith Smart's memorable last-second shot secured a 74-73 victory for the Hoosiers.
Adding to the excitement, Syracuse will also take on Providence at the TD Garden in Boston. The date is yet to be confirmed, but it promises to be another compelling non-conference clash. Providence is now led by head coach Bryan Hodgson, who was previously at South Florida and was once considered for Syracuse's head coaching role.
In other scheduling news, Syracuse will not be participating in the 2026 Players Era Championship in Las Vegas, a decision confirmed by a team spokesperson. The Orange had a tough run in this NIL-driven event last year, going 0-3 against formidable opponents like Houston, Kansas, and Iowa State.
Looking ahead, Syracuse is expected to participate in the annual ACC-SEC Challenge. Last season, they edged out a victory against then-No. 13 Tennessee, 62-60, showcasing their potential in high-stakes games.
Coach McNamara has expressed interest in adding Colgate and Cornell to the schedule, recognizing the importance of these matchups for both Syracuse and the mid-major programs. It’s a strategic move that makes sense for all involved, providing competitive opportunities and strengthening regional ties.