Full Breakdown
Hofstra Upsets Syracuse in Close Contest
12/15/2025, 12:06:25 AM
Game Overview
On December 13, 2025, Hofstra University achieved a significant upset by defeating Syracuse University 70-69 at the JMA Wireless Dome. This victory marked Hofstra's second win over an Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) opponent in just a week, following their earlier triumph against the University of Pittsburgh.
Key Moments and Performance
Cruz Davis led Hofstra with a game-high 22 points and contributed nine assists. His late-game performance was pivotal, as he assisted German Plotnikov, who hit a crucial three-pointer with 31.9 seconds remaining, giving Hofstra a 70-68 lead. Syracuse's Sadiq White Jr. missed the first of two free throws shortly after, and despite forcing a turnover, Kiyan Anthony's potential game-winning shot was blocked by Hofstra's Victory Onuetu.
Syracuse had initially led 68-67 after an 11-0 run late in the game, but their inability to maintain the lead ultimately cost them the match. The Orange struggled with free-throw shooting, finishing at 56.3% (9 of 16), which has been a recurring issue for the team this season.
Statistical Breakdown
Both teams exhibited similar shooting percentages, with Hofstra hitting 49.1% from the field and 66.7% from three-point range, while Syracuse shot 45.6% overall and 34.8% from beyond the arc. The Pride's efficiency from the free-throw line contrasted sharply with Syracuse's struggles, which proved to be a decisive factor in the game.
Syracuse had five players scoring in double figures, with J.J. Starling leading the team with 15 points. William Kyle III added 13 points, while White, Anthony, and Nate Kingz each contributed 12 points. Despite these efforts, the Orange's defensive lapses allowed Hofstra to capitalize on critical moments.
Official Statements & Responses
Postgame, Syracuse head coach Adrian Autry expressed disappointment, stating, "It’s unacceptable for Syracuse," emphasizing the need for improvement as the team aims to break a long NCAA Tournament drought. William Kyle III echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the team's need to perform better in crucial situations.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics pointed to the officiating and Syracuse's inability to adapt to Hofstra's zone defense as contributing factors to the loss. Some players, including Kiyan Anthony, felt that questionable calls impacted the game's outcome, particularly in the final moments. Despite these grievances, the consensus remains that Syracuse should not have allowed the game to be so close against a mid-major opponent.
What's Next
Following this defeat, Syracuse (6-4) will host Mercyhurst on December 17, 2025, as they seek to rebound from this setback. Hofstra (8-4) will look to continue their momentum against Quinnipiac on December 21, 2025. The loss has significant implications for Syracuse's postseason aspirations, as they must now navigate the remainder of their schedule with heightened urgency to secure a place in the NCAA Tournament.
