The Syracuse Orange faced a tough challenge on January 17, 2026, against the Boston College Eagles. The game, held at Conte Forum in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, ended in a dramatic Syracuse basketball loss of 81-73 in overtime . This matchup was crucial for both teams, especially for Syracuse, which was hoping to maintain its winning streak and secure its place in the NCAA Tournament.
The Orange, led by Nate Kingz who scored a season-high 27 points, fought valiantly but ultimately fell short against the resilient Eagles . The loss was particularly disappointing for Syracuse, which had been on a three-game winning streak before the match . This defeat not only disrupted their momentum but also put their NCAA Tournament hopes at further risk .
Boston College, on the other hand, had been struggling in the ACC, entering the game with a 0-4 record in conference play . However, they managed to break their four-game losing streak with this victory, improving to 1-4 in the ACC and 8-10 overall . The Eagles' performance was highlighted by their ability to capitalize on Syracuse's turnovers, scoring 22 points off 18 Syracuse mistakes .
One of the key factors in Syracuse's loss was the high number of turnovers. Naithan George, a significant contributor for the Orange, coughed up the ball seven times, which significantly contributed to Boston College's scoring . The Eagles' effective shooting from three-point range, hitting 40% of their attempts, also played a critical role in their victory .
The loss to Boston College was a stark reminder of the challenges Syracuse faces in the competitive ACC. Despite their efforts, the Orange could not overcome the Eagles' defensive pressure and offensive execution. As the season progresses, Syracuse will need to address their turnover issues and improve their consistency if they hope to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament .
Looking ahead, both teams will need to focus on their upcoming games to improve their standings in the ACC. For Syracuse, this loss serves as a wake-up call to tighten their defensive strategies and maintain composure under pressure. Meanwhile, Boston College will look to build on this victory and continue their climb in the conference rankings. The game highlighted the unpredictability of college basketball and the importance of every matchup in the competitive landscape of the ACC .
