Syracuse men’s soccer standouts Buchanan, Miller selected in MLS Superdraft

For the fourth time in the last five years, the Syracuse Orange have had one of their own drafted in the Top 10 of the MLS Superdraft. Sophomore forward Tajon Buchanan continued the trend, being selected No. 9 overall by the New England Revolution. Right at the open of the second round, the Orange heard their name called again, when senior centerback Kamal Miller was selected 27th overall by Orlando City FC.

This marks the fifth Generation Adidas player in five years to be drafted for the Orange, with Buchanan being the fifteenth Syracuse player selected in the modern “Superdraft.” He is also the seventh first round draft pick in Syracuse history.

This caps an award-filled career for Buchanan. In his two years, he was selected to the All-ACC first team, and the All-South Region second team his sophomore season and the All-ACC Third Team and All-ACC Freshman team his freshman campaign. He ended this season with a team high twenty points, on the back of eight goals and four assists. While leading the line for the Orange, Buchanan finished his career having tallied twelve goals and six assists, leading Syracuse in points scored over that time.

Kamal Miller becomes the eighth first round draft pick for the Syracuse Orange. The versatile ball-playing defender should work towards earning some time with the senior team, while signing with Orlando City B.

A four-year starter at centerback, Miller leaves Syracuse as a two year captain and stalwart at the back. Always a vocal presence on the field and willing to put in a shift, Miller will be drastically missed along the backline. With 78 matches under his belt, Kamal leaves some large boots to fill.

The third and fourth rounds of the draft will be held on Monday, January 14 at 1 p.m. ET. At that juncture, we’ll find out if senior Hugo Delhommelle will be getting picked up in the draft as well.