The Syracuse women's team began the season with the best start in team history. Granted, the OOC schedule was so soft that even Jim Boeheim would have scoffed. But hey, you play to win the games. After the 12-0 start however, the ladies entered Big East play. And that's, as Martin Lawrence would say, where s**t just got real.
Syracuse (16-4) lost 68-65 to St. John's (17-3) last night, which is a tough enough loss. Their third in four games and fourth in the Big East (3-4). It was how they lost, however, that really stings.
With the Orange clinging to a 65-64 lead and the clock winding down, SU’s Erica Morrow dribbled to the top of the key, failed to get a ball screen and got tangled up with St. John’s freshman guard Nadirah McKenith, who stole the ball. Seconds later, another Red Storm freshman, touted recruit Shenneika Smith, nailed two free throws for a 66-65 turnaround.
On the ensuing inbounds play, with seven seconds remaining, Tasha Harris’ half-court heave was caught by Syracuse teammate Juanita Ward but was immediately stolen again by McKenith. Her two free throws sealed a 68-65 victory for the Johnnies.
Watch the carnage unfold for yourself here, courtesy of Syracuse.com...
Despite the hot start, the Orange find themselves searching for their identity again. They don't have many quality wins to speak of and they've been brought back down to Earth in the conference. With a return bout at Georgetown and the hated UConn Huskies on the horizon, things could go south in a hurry.
Here's some video of Coach Q post-game. Of note, the giant Q gold necklace around his neck. Solid.
| Coach Hillsman St. Johns Post-game Press Conference |