How to Bounce Back from a Loss: A Guide with Syracuse Women’s Basketball
By Andrew Della Piana | @dellie_5
On Sunday, Syracuse women’s hoops suffered just its third loss of the season, falling to Virginia Tech 75-62. The words “loss” and “defeat” have not been used often by the Orange, since they entered the contest against the Hokies with a 17-2 record, their best start through 19 games in more than a decade. In fact, Syracuse’s conference record of 7-1 was its strongest start in either the Big East or the ACC.
The Orange must be listening to Big Sean before facing their next opponent after a loss because he stated it best: “Last night I took an L, but tonight I bounce back.” The ‘Cuse is 2-0 this season following a loss, so let’s look at what the Orange do well to get back on track.
South Point Shootout | Thanksgiving Week
In mid-November, Syracuse dropped its first contest of the caping in a heartbreaker on the road at #20 Maryland. With the Orange trailing by two on the final possession, Alaina Rice was triple-teamed in the paint by Terrapins defenders, and a defender poked the ball away with a second remaining, therefore concluding the game without SU taking a shot.
The best remedy for Syracuse was a trip to Las Vegas, where the squad faced Northern Iowa. The stars shine brightest in Vegas, but it was at the defensive end where the Orange brought their chips to the table. Syracuse recorded 13 blocks in its 17-point victory, led by Kyra Wood, who had a career-high five blocks and 10 rebounds. It was the Orange’s first 10-plus block performance since early January of 2023. SU also limited the UNI attack to less than 30% from the floor.
Vs Boston College | January 7th
In 2024, Syracuse debuted at No. 25 in the Week 9 Associated AP Top-25 Poll, marking the first time the program has been ranked under Felisha Legette-Jack. SU traveled to North Carolina for its first road game in ACC play, but everything came apart against the Tar Heels. In the 24-point thrashing, UNC’s Alyssa Ustby recorded the first triple-double in program history with 16 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists, becoming the only player in NCAA history to have 15+ points, 15+ rebounds, and 10 assists against a ranked opponent.
Syracuse, however, returned to the JMA Wireless Dome, where it had won 12 consecutive games, to face Boston College. Following a blowout loss, it is typically the more experienced players who step up and lead the team, but this was not the case with the Orange. Freshman Sophie Burrows shined in the bounce-back victory with career-highs of 17 points and 7 rebounds coming off the bench.
No. 21 Syracuse’s next chance to rebound from a loss is on Thursday at No. 16 Louisville. The Cardinals have won their last seven meetings with the Orange.
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aedellap@syr.edu | @dellie_5
