The Only Orange Florida Can't Squeeze

It's not uncommon that the Syracuse University Men's Basketball team starts a season 9-0, they've certainly attained that mark multiple times before. However, it's not every year that you see THE CUSE start out their season with high quality out of conference top 25 victories. Although SU's win versus Florida was by no means convincing, unlike the one over then 13th ranked California and the following night over 4th ranked UNC, the win over Florida did show us how SU can respond to adversity. SU was in control for most of the game, however, they were down 2 with less than 10 minutes left in the game. This was caused by The Cuse giving up three straight 3 pointers to the Gators and at that point in the game every SU fan must have been shaking in their boots. Nonetheless, Rautins immediately showed his leadership abilities and demanded the ball as he hit a 3 with absolutely no hesitation.... love it. After that, SU didn't give up the lead again as Wesley Johnson decided he was going to show up and prove he's the best player SU has to offer.
The one thing this team has this year is perseverence and a sense of team. They overcame a tough Florida team and really do play well together. There isn't one guy that has to take the shot when SU needs a bucket; they can go to nearly anyone on the floor and can expect something positive. Guys like Rick Jackson exemplifies this fact. Rick plays tough D, goes for nearly every board, and has through hard off-season work become a very solid offensive player...nearly shocking after his output as a Freshman. That's why Boeheim is a hall of famer, because he's able to bring the best out of players. Great game last night gentlemen, I had knots in my stomach throughout, but still an impressive showing.