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LSU vs Syracuse: 2023-24 college basketball game preview, TV schedule

By Tristan Freeman

Feb 14, 2023; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange guard Judah Mintz (3) reacts to a made three-point basket against the North Carolina State Wolfpack during the second half at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 14, 2023; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange guard Judah Mintz (3) reacts to a made three-point basket against the North Carolina State Wolfpack during the second half at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /
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LSU and Syracuse kick off the ACC/SEC Challenge on Tuesday night. In a battle of positional strengths, which team will have the advantage?

TV schedule: Tuesday, November 28th, 7:00 pm ET. ESPN2

Arena: JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, New York

It’s the first-ever conference series between the ACC and SEC. It’s 14 games between the leagues in the next couple of days, played on Tuesday and Wednesday. The Louisville Cardinals, by virtue of finishing last in the ACC, is the odd team out for this one. So we’ll start with this matchup between two teams looking to get back in the NCAA Tournament picture.

The Orange (4-2) has introduced new coach Adrian Autry to the league, leading a fairly young group of players. Sophomore guard Judah Mintz (18.3 ppg and 4.2 apg) is having a nice second year, while Chris Bell and JJ Starling are also in double figures scoring. The frontcourt hasn’t scored as much with 7’4 center Naheem McLeod having his ups and downs and the overall defense has struggled against top competition.

LSU (4-2) had a rough start to the season, losing to Nicholls State of the Southland. They’ve improved since, getting wins over North Texas and Wake Forest in the Charleston Classic. Nevada transfer Will Baker (16.3 ppg and 6.5 rpg) has been the standout so far, with the frontcourt collectively playing well. However, the lack of backcourt production outside of Jordan Wright has been a major issue.

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This is a matchup of opposite strengths, as Syracuse has a much better backcourt, while LSU has a much better frontcourt. Ultimately, it should be an easier time for the Orange to get buckets in this one, which will be a big difference in what should be a close game. I have the home team winning in a high-scoring affair.

Prediction: Syracuse 86, LSU 81

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