Brandon Triche sum up everything you and I believe about Syracuse and basketball and life.

"Taking shots is better than turning the ball over."

Amen, brother. And that's not just talk, it's a lifestyle choice for Brandon Triche over the last month. Once just a cog in the machine, Triche has slowly become the most dependable player on the roster. Most importantly, he's become a scorer.

"I think he’s feeling more comfortable," said Gerry McNamara, who had a school-record 400 3-pointers in his Syracuse career and now serves as a graduate assistant. "He’s really asserting himself. That’s what coach wanted him to do all season. When he gets going, he’s as good of a shooter that’s out there. Early in the season, I think he was a little hesitant."

Triche is relishing the opportunity to be a team leader, something that this team sorely needs:

"I need to play the role that Andy (Rautins) played last year," said Triche, whose uncle, Howard Triche, starred on the Syracuse team that lost to Indiana, 74-73, in the 1987 national championship game. "I need to knock down the 3s and play tough defense at the top of the zone. My coaches have been telling me, ’Start early, try to give us a lift.’"

Wait...Howard Triche...Brandon Triche...WHY AM I JUST LEARNING THIS???

It's Triche'a time to shine but don't forget about fab frosh C.J. Fair. You like what you've seen so far? Remember, he's just getting started...

"He just has so much potential," Duane Davis said. "He’s going to be one of Syracuse’s best players. I told Rob Murphy, ‘This kid is really special.’ He’s getting that confidence back again and next year I would just say ‘Watch out.’

• 3 keys for Syracuse against Rutgers...Daily Orange
• Position-by-position breakdown of Syracuse vs. Rutgers...Daily Orange
• Opponents find success shooting over SU’s zone...The Juice Online
• Last time they played: Syracuse vs. Rutgers...Daily Orange