Elijah Hughes powers Syracuse men’s basketball to first win in Italy

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.