NC State Falls Short In Tough Battle Against Syracuse

RALEIGH, N.C. – DJ Horne scored 32 points making it his 100th game scoring 20 or more points in the 87-83 loss against the Syracuse Orange Tuesday night in the PNC Arena. 

It was a slow start for the Wolfpack. Syracuse played tight defensive coverage to start the game and went on a 9-0 run, which was all three-pointers from Chris Bell. NC State interrupted that run with two three-pointers from DJ Horne. 

As the first half continued, NC State picked up the slack but could not tame the Syracuse Orange. However, midway in the first half, NC State struggled with steals and turnovers that led to points for Syracuse. 

The Pack had the advantage of free-throws throughout the half, but Syracuse would continue to dominate for the rest of the first half. 

NC State came out of halftime with a little more pace than before but still too loose with the ball. The Pack continued to give the Syracuse Orange opportunities to score off those turnovers. 

The Pack got a rhythm going with a 7-0 run to bring the score within three points closing in on the second half.  

NC State took the lead with 3:15 remaining in the game. With a late foul from the Wolfpack, Syracuse secured the win 87-83. 

Syracuse moved the ball with ease and was quick on their feet. NC State struggled to close in the space on defense and allowed the Syracuse Orange to shoot at 59%. 

Syracuse shot 27 points (31%) with three-pointers. 

Chris bell was the front runner for Syracuse for Tuesday’s game. Bell scored 26 points, including eight three pointers. However, Bell was held scoreless in the second half. Syracuse guard Quadir Copeland complimented him by adding 25 points of his own.

DJ Horne led the Wolfpack with 32 points, including six three-pointers. 

NC State allowed 10 turnovers that converted into 15 points for the Syracuse Orange. 

Moving forward, NC State must pick up the energy. The Wolfpack showed little energy and effort to contain the Syracuse Orange. 

Up next, NC State will host Boston College on Feb 24 at 2:00 P.M.