Andrew White III’s streak of at least 20 points ends as the Orange lose a possible season ending game to Georgia Tech.
For the second game in a row, the Syracuse Orange failed to complete an improbable comeback as careless mistakes hurt them once again. The Orange struggled from the field as they shot just under 36 percent and about 27 percent from three. Key contributors struggled throughout as the hoop seemed as small as ever.
Andrew White III’s seven game streak with at least 20 points ended as he finished with 17 points on 6-16 shooting from the field and 4-12 from deep. White’s production has been the most consistent aspect of Syracuse’s offense this season, but tonight White couldn’t do it alone.
White has made himself known this season for his lethal three point shot with his ability to shoot off the catch and the dribble. White’s streak was a key aspect of SU’s season turnaround, but a loss like this likely could make his efforts worth nothing.
The flow of the offense as of late has been stagnant, and tonight’s outing proved just that. When the Orange are at their peak the offense showcases multiple extra passes that lead to open shots for the various Syracuse sharpshooters. However, when the offense is stagnant as it was tonight, SU is stuck forcing up contested threes as the shot clock nears zero.
White is one of the most vital aspects to the Orange’s offense, and when he is forced to take last second heaves not only does his shooting streak end, but Syracuse’s March Madness chances do too. The Orange had the potential to be a lethal offense, but stagnant shooters won’t get the job done in the toughest conference in the Nation.
Syracuse has put themselves in a hole that seems nearly impossible to dig themselves out of. A loss like this could possibly end Syracuse’s possibility of returning the big dance, something no one thought what be a reality before the year began.
Andrew White III’s short Syracuse career seems to be coming to a surprisingly early conclusion. The Orange have three more games to prove the doubters wrong once again, but this time around it looks as if White’s heroics won’t be enough.
SU need the best out of White every night to come out with road wins in the ACC, but unfortunately tonight wasn’t one of those nights. White has given the Orange his full commitment this year. They’ll need it at least a few more times if they want to make the postseason.
