It’s been an offseason of changes for Syracuse Basketball, starting with a head coach. Former Orange star and Siena Coach Gerry McNamara takes over for Red Autry, adding multiple players from the Saints and the MAAC/Metro Conference overall this offseason to have a compelling roster for the 2026-27 season.
What are the key storylines and topics to watch for the next few months? Here’s a look at a few.
1. Going from the MAAC to the ACC
Whether it’s a coach or a player, going from the mid-major ranks to a high-major conference is a big concern, one that can determine how good a program will be. For Syracuse, it’s the biggest issue, as every newcomer to the roster is either a freshman or a transfer from outside the high-major ranks. Several former Siena players have followed McNamara to the ACC, including leading scorer and all-league forward, Gavin Doty (18 ppg and 6.9 rpg).
The Orange also has former MAAC POY Amarri Monroe, who put up 15.6 ppg and 8.3 rpg at Quinnipiac. Aiden Tobiason (15.3 ppg) is the guy who played at the highest level at Temple but for the Orange to have a good season, they’ll need several players to be able to make the transition to the ACC level.
2. Kiyan Anthony’s development
The two players who stayed through the coaching change was Anthony and Sadiq White Jr., two former top-50 prospects who each had roles as freshmen. Kiyan, the son of Hall of Fame basketball player and former Orange national champion Carmelo Anthony, averaged 8.0 ppg on 40% FG shooting as a freshman off the bench.
Expectations will be high on the young Anthony and there’s a chance he could be a focal point of the offense. If he takes a legit leap, Syracuse Basketball could be in the NCAA Tournament mix but if he struggles or isn’t in a big role with the new coach, Anthony could ultimately depart the program next offseason.
3. Defensive upside
Part of why Syracuse struggled last year was due to its defensive issues, ranking at the very bottom in several categories in the ACC. Two of its newcomers are known for defense, including McNeese State transfer point guard Garwey Dual (8.4 ppg and 4.4 apg) was on the all-defense in the Southland. Center Luke Wilson (10.7 ppg and 8.3 rpg) was the Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year at Appalachian State.
Assuming both players start, Syracuse will have a great defender both inside and outside. We’ll see what they can provide on offense but this could be the most welcomed change to the roster that sets them out well for success.
Add us as a preferred source on Google