Syracuse Basketball Faces Uphill Battle for NCAA Tournament Bid in Resurgent ACC

Syracuse men’s basketball begins ACC play this week. The Orange hold a 9-4 record after non-conference games. Their path to the NCAA tournament now hinges on league performance.According to analytics, 13 ACC teams are currently ranked ahead of Syracuse in the NET. The team must win a majority of its 18 conference games to enter the at-large conversation. A healthy Donnie Freeman could be key for their postseason hopes.

Improved ACC Conference Seeks More March Madness Invitations

The ACC has faced criticism in recent years for a lack of depth. Only four ACC teams received NCAA bids last season. That was the league’s smallest percentage since the tournament expanded.This season looks different. ACC teams have already notched 16 Quad 1 wins. That is a strong early resume builder for the selection committee.The league also has a record 25 non-conference 100-point games. This offensive firepower shows improved strength. Performance data from StatsPerform confirms the conference’s upward trend.Syracuse’s first three ACC games are critical. They face Clemson, Pittsburgh, and Georgia Tech. Winning these matchups is essential for building a tournament-worthy profile.

ACC NET Rankings Highlight Syracuse’s Challenge

The current NET rankings illustrate the mountain Syracuse must climb. Duke, North Carolina, and Louisville are all ranked in the nation’s top 20.Clemson, Syracuse’s first ACC opponent, sits at 38th. The Orange are currently 88th. They are ranked behind 13 other conference schools.Games against lower-ranked teams like Pittsburgh and Georgia Tech are now must-wins. Losing those would severely damage tournament chances. Every conference game carries significant weight for the Orange’s postseason destiny.

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The Syracuse basketball team’s NCAA tournament hopes now depend entirely on ACC play. Navigating a stronger conference will be their ultimate test. The journey begins now.

Thought you’d like to know

What are Syracuse’s chances of making the NCAA tournament?

Analytics show it will be difficult. Syracuse must finish with a strong winning record in ACC play. Beating several teams ranked higher in the NET is crucial for their resume.

How important is Donnie Freeman to Syracuse’s success?

His health is very important. Freeman provides needed scoring and rebounding. He also gives Coach Adrian Autry more flexible lineup options.

Why is the ACC considered stronger this season?

The league has more quality wins. ACC teams have 16 Quad 1 victories already. They also set a record with 25 non-conference 100-point games.

Who is Syracuse’s first ACC opponent?

Syracuse opens conference play against Clemson on December 31. The game is at the JMA Wireless Dome. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. ET on ESPN2.

How many ACC teams could make the NCAA tournament?

Early metrics suggest several teams are in the mix. Currently, 10 ACC schools have at least one Quad 1 win. The league is positioned to earn more bids than last season.

Trusted Sources: StatsPerform, ACC Conference, ESPN