Full Breakdown
Syracuse Basketball Ends Losing Streak with Victory Over Notre Dame
2/1/2026, 4:17:54 AM
Game Overview
On January 31, 2026, the Syracuse Orange men's basketball team defeated the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 86-72 at the JMA Wireless Dome, effectively ending a four-game losing streak. The Orange improved their record to 13-9 overall and 4-5 in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), while Notre Dame fell to 11-11 and 2-7 in the league.
Key Performers
Syracuse was led by Nate Kingz, who scored a season-high 28 points, including 22 in the second half. JJ Starling contributed significantly with 21 points, showcasing a strong performance against his former team. William Kyle III added 10 points and eight rebounds, while Naithan George recorded 10 assists without a turnover, highlighting the team's improved ball movement.
For Notre Dame, Jalen Haralson led the scoring with 26 points, while Braeden Shrewsberry added 17 points. Despite their efforts, the Irish struggled to maintain momentum throughout the game.
Game Dynamics
The Orange took control early, launching an 11-0 run that established a lead they would not relinquish. Syracuse shot 57.1% from the field and 40% from three-point range, while limiting Notre Dame to 49.1% overall and just 27.3% from beyond the arc. The first half ended with Syracuse leading 40-31, bolstered by Starling's perfect shooting performance, where he went 7-for-7 from the field.
In the second half, Notre Dame attempted to close the gap, cutting the lead to six points at one point. However, Syracuse responded with a decisive 9-0 run, effectively sealing the game.
Statistical Highlights
- Syracuse Shooting: 32-56 (57.1%) from the field, 10-25 (40%) from three-point range.
- Notre Dame Shooting: 26-53 (49.1%) from the field, 6-22 (27.3%) from three-point range.
- Rebounds: Syracuse 34, Notre Dame 28.
- Assists: Syracuse 21, Notre Dame 11.
- Turnovers: Syracuse 6, Notre Dame 10.
Official Statements & Responses
Syracuse head coach Adrian Autry praised his team's energy and execution, particularly highlighting the importance of ball movement and defensive intensity. He noted, "We played with energy and enthusiasm, and it showed in our performance."
Notre Dame coach Micah Shrewsberry acknowledged the challenges his team faced, stating, "We struggled to find sustained momentum on either end of the floor."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the victory, some analysts pointed out that Syracuse's performance came against a struggling Notre Dame team missing key players, including star guard Markus Burton. Critics argue that while the win is a positive step, it does not fully alleviate concerns about Syracuse's consistency and overall performance in the season.
What's Next
Following this victory, Syracuse will face No. 16 North Carolina on February 4, while Notre Dame will travel to play No. 20 Louisville on the same day. Both teams will look to build on their respective performances as the season progresses.
