VEDANO OLONA, ITALY (WSYR-TV) –
The new-look SU men’s basketball team was tested in its first game over in Italy, but the Orange was able to prevail 69-59. Elijah Hughes led the way with 18 points. Buddy Boeheim and freshman Brycen Goodine were the only other SU players in double figures, both finished with 11 points.
Syracuse held a seven-point lead after one quarter, but that lead was cut to three at the half. SU shot the ball well to open the third quarter and built a 15-point advantage. Again though, the All Stars Varese squad was able to close the gap getting back to within four. The Orange held on down the stretch for the 10-point victory.
Bourama Sidibe got the start at center and finished with eight points, including six in the first quarter. Freshman forward Quincy Guerrier chipped in with nine points. Highly-touted recruit Joe Girard struggled to make shots early but did finish with six points and a couple of made three-pointers.
The Orange will next be in action on Wednesday against Oxygen Bassano at Palazzetto Dello Sport Via Goldoni 12 in Italy.