College Basketball Preview: 10. Syracuse Orange

The speedy Jardine gives the Orange a quick scoring threat.

Syracuse Orange Key Loss: F Wes Johnson, F Andy Rautins Key Returnees: F Kris Joseph, G Brandon Triche

It was a pretty surprising year for the Orange last season. After the loss of key guards Johny Flynn and Eric Devendorf Syracuse rolled all the way to a number one seed. Most of this was the great play of Wes Johnson and Andy Rautins. Another key factor was the play of freshmen guard Brandon Triche and sophomore Scoop Jardine. Luckily both of these guys return. Plus, they also return dominant post players Kris Joseph and Rick Jackson who will soften the loss of Arize Onuaku. New recruits Fabricio de Melo and C.J. Fair will also help Jim Boeheim's team. Boeheim must also hope young player mature quickly like forward DaShonte Riley who may have to start at small forward with the loss of team leader Andy Rautins. If the Orange can contend with the loss of leadership they can return to the top of the Big East once more.

Big East Rank: 1st
Last Season Results: 30-5, lost to Butler in Sweet 16
Key Recruits: Fabricio de Melo(16+), G Dion Waiters(29+)
+=Rivals.com Recruiting Rank