The Syracuse Orange men's basketball team is set to clash with the Providence Friars this season, bringing a bit of nostalgia back to the court. The matchup will unfold at Boston's TD Garden, offering a neutral ground for this non-conference showdown. While we're still waiting on the exact date and time, the anticipation is already building.
This upcoming season marks a new era for both programs, each under fresh leadership. Syracuse welcomes Gerry McNamara as their head coach.
McNamara, a beloved figure in Syracuse's history, returns after steering Siena to the NCAA Tournament. Meanwhile, Providence will be guided by Bryan Hodgson, who impressed by leading South Florida to the NCAA Tournament in his debut season as head coach.
Interestingly, both McNamara and Hodgson were contenders for the Syracuse role.
It's been a while since these two teams faced off, with their last encounter dating back to the 2012-13 season when Syracuse exited the Big East. Historically, Syracuse has dominated the series, boasting a 48-10 record against Providence, including victories in 11 of their last 12 matchups.
In addition to this exciting game, Syracuse is also slated to participate in the Players Era tournament in Las Vegas. This event offers a unique twist, with teams vying for a $1 million contribution to their preferred collective, and an additional $1 million prize for the champions. Set for late November, this tournament promises to add an extra layer of excitement to the season.