Syracuse's Battle Against Texas in the Legends Classic

Mike's Prediction

In the first prediction, Mike believes that Texas will emerge victorious with a score of 87 to 59. After the initial close calls, he was hopeful to remain optimistic. However, the fact that a buy game went to double overtime is a significant red flag, especially considering the unfamiliarity among the roster. The Orange have not shot well from the arc or the line, and without a sudden improvement in these areas, their chances seem slim. Perhaps a real rout is what they need to ignite their performance on Friday night. One can only hope for a better showing.

It's clear that Mike is concerned about the team's shooting woes and the lack of cohesion. He hopes that the Orange can find a way to turn things around and start playing to their full potential.

Sam's Prediction

Sam is a bit hesitant to predict a complete blowout for Texas. He acknowledges that the team understands the need to bring energy and perform better. Texas, although a different team now, needed a buzzer-beater to beat Louisville in the Empire Classic last year in front of a sparse crowd at the Garden. Sam believes that getting out of the routine of playing at the Dome and facing a pro-SU crowd might help the Orange. However, he doesn't think it will be enough, as the Longhorns will be able to maintain a distance in the second half and secure an in-state battle with Texas Tech in the final.

Sam also considers the matchups and the strengths of both teams. He expects the Red Raiders to dominate Saint Joseph's, even with Elijah Hawkins on the floor. The combination of wing shooting and strength with players like Kerwin Walton, Chance McMillan, and Darrion Williams, along with their star JT Toppin, will be too much for the Hawks.

Dom's Prediction

Dom predicts a margin of defeat between Mike and Sam's predictions, with Texas winning 87 to 70. He believes the game will play out similar to last year's tougher games in Maui. Syracuse will keep it close in the first half, but an offensive explosion from Texas in the second half will seal the deal. Tre Johnson has emerged as a legitimate scorer for Texas, and if Starling doesn't have another exceptional game, it could be the deciding factor.

Dom emphasizes the importance of half-court play and the efficiency of the Longhorns. Texas doesn't take many shots but is among the top three in the SEC in both field goal and three-point field goal efficiency without turning the ball over. This gives them a significant advantage in the game.

Szuba's Prediction

Szuba finds it difficult to pick against Texas in this game given their scoring ability and Syracuse's defensive struggles in their first three games. Tre Johnson is the most talented scorer, and Arthur Kaluma poses a matchup problem that Syracuse may not be able to solve. On the other end, Chendall Weaver's defensive intensity might limit Starling in this matchup.

Overall, Szuba sees trouble ahead for Syracuse as they face a tough opponent in Texas.

Kevin's Prediction

Kevin expects Texas to pull away late, but he also looks for Syracuse to respond to the challenge of playing a better team in NYC. Eddie Lampkin is expected to make an impact, but Jaquan Carlos is likely to take a big step forward in his return home. The Texas player that scares Kevin the most is Arthur Kaluma, as his experience as a big could pose a challenge for Donnie Freeman.

Although the Orange will lose, Kevin believes their performance will be more encouraging than their three wins so far.

Max's Prediction

Max feels that this game will be similar to last year's Maui Invitational. While they are on the East Coast this time, Syracuse still needs to be more consistent on both ends to have a chance of stealing a win. Forty minutes of clean basketball is essential for the Orange, but with poor shooting and suspect transition defense, they are not quite there yet.

Max anticipates some flashes of greatness from the Orange, but he also expects a few big runs from Texas that will ultimately seal the victory.