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Syracuse University men's basketball coach Adrian Autry is setting a clear goal for the upcoming season: leading the Orange back to the NCAA Tournament. During media day on Wednesday (October 15), Autry emphasized the importance of ending the team's four-year absence from the "Big Dance," the longest drought since the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Autry, who grew up with the program, stated, "I want to make the tournament every year. I'm not here just to be mediocre." The Orange last appeared in the tournament in 2021, and Autry is determined to change that narrative. The team, which finished with 14 wins last season, will see new talent, including Kiyan Anthony, son of former Syracuse star and NBA Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony.
Kiyan Anthony expressed his motivation, saying, "Seeing my dad’s name on the building definitely motivates me to work harder every day." Alongside Anthony, the Orange will feature six transfers and three returning players, including J.J. Starling and Donnie Freeman, who both averaged double-digit scoring last season.
As reported by The Sporting News, Autry is focusing on defensive intensity and offensive teamwork. The team is ranked ninth out of 18 in the preseason ACC poll, indicating room for growth. Autry remarked, "New season, new team. That's what it is. Everything that's in the past is in the past."
Syracuse will start their season with an exhibition game against the University at Buffalo on October 25 at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo. The team and its fans are hopeful for a successful season and a return to the NCAA Tournament.