The new era for Syracuse University Men’s basketball is about to tip off with Scranton’s Gerry McNamamra leading the way.
Last week the Orange held their media day before the tip things off Tuesday with an exhibition game against national power Connecticut.
G-MAC talked about what he wants to see from his team tomorrow.
Gerry McNamara, Syracuse coach says, “I think for us, we’ve got a lot of guys, you know, we’ve got guys that I think can impact the game.
For me, these exhibition games have to be given these guys an opportunity to showcase themselves. Whether I’m not going to say we’re going to sacrifice result. I’m not saying that because when they when we’re under the whistle, I’m going to do what I always do and I’m going to try to coach to win. But I think it’s important over these first three exhibition games that we get these guys on the court, different lineups, see how they look together. Work guys in, a couple guys coming off, you know, nagging injuries that might not be necessarily ready to play the minutes. So, Mike, give another guy an opportunity on his first game or two. “
Chris Doty, Syracuse Junior added, “ You know, culture is everything and that goes along with character. We value character so much in our program just because, you know, getting the right people in here in terms of a locker room will play a big role in success on the floor. Truly believe in that. And I think I’m taking on a big leadership role. Having been in the program for a couple of years now. I’m really looking forward to it. I’m just going to do whatever I can to lead these guys and help us win basketball games. “
Kiyan Anthony, Syracuse Sophomore says, “l look at it as a plus, you know, I don’t see no negatives in it. I basically known G-MAC my whole life. So for him to come and be my coach now, I just look at his fun, you know, with him coaching me, that my dad on the sideline is going to be a sight to see. So we’re looking forward to Tuesday. Our first real test against UConn obviously doesn’t count for the wins or loses, but we’re going to go out there and try to win. “
Syracuse and UConn are scheduled to tip off Tuesday at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut at 7pm.