Syracuse in the NCAA Sweet 16

After what was almost an early exit for Syracuse in the NCAA Tournament, redemption.   The Orange preps for the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).  The NCAA Tournament went from 68 teams to 16 in just six days and we are moving swiftly to turn what’s left of that number even smaller.  We call it the Final Four. From those four teams a winner will be determined among them and we call that the National Champion.  

As the Orange preps for the NCAA Tournament East Region semifinal in Boston this Thursday, what challenges do they face in the No. 4 Wisconsin Badgers? 

The Badgers, seeded fourth, who improved to 26-9 and advanced to the round of 16 for consecutive years by defeating fifth-seeded Vanderbilt, 60-57 and Montana, 73-49, in the second round. This however, will be Wisconsin’s toughest test. 

Wisconsin leads the nation in points allowed, giving up just 52.9 points per game.  The Badgers also rank in the Top 10 in the country in field goal defense, 3-point field goal defense and defensive points per possession.  Wisconsin has given up more than 70 points just once since New Year’s.  

Boosted by their bench, the Orange (33-2) cruised past eight-seeded Kansas State in the third round and pulled a difficult 72-65 win over North Carolina-Asheville in the second round two days before.  Syracuse is on of the four top seed teams in the NCCA Tournament.  The Orange have now played five games without Fab Melo, this game might be the greatest test the Orange may face.  The advantage for the Orange is Dion Waiters and James Southland with a  33 combined off the bench points.  The way Scoop Jardin performs will also be key against the Badgers.  Moreover, Kris Joseph will always be the player to go to in times of trouble especially if Jardine will be guarded well by the Badgers.  Hopefully, the high percentage shooting of 46.6% will help Syracuse secure the win against the Badgers.  GO ORANGE!

PIC 

Wisconsin averages 64 points a game while Syracuse has 74.5 points a game.  Badgers defense is what matters most giving up 52.9 points only while Syracuse giving up 60.5 points per game.  The Sweet 16  schedule of Wisconsin vs. Syracuse is on March 22, 2012 at 7:15 PM.  Which team do you think will win? My bet is Syracuse!