Syracuse University has long been renowned for its rich basketball tradition, producing some of the finest players to grace the hardwood. With a history dating back to the early 20th century, the Syracuse Orange basketball program has consistently showcased exceptional talent.
- Dave Bing: Years at Syracuse: 1963-1966 Position: Guard Collegiate Achievements: A three-time All-American and the 1966 National Player of the Year, Bing guided Syracuse to an NIT Championship in 1966. He remains one of the top scorers in program history, averaging 24.8 points per game. NBA Career: Bing had a stellar NBA career, playing for the Detroit Pistons, Washington Bullets, and Boston Celtics. He was a seven-time NBA All-Star, earning induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1990.
- Derrick Coleman: Years at Syracuse: 1986-1990 Position: Forward Collegiate Achievements: Coleman played a crucial role in Syracuse’s success during the late 1980s. He was named the Big East Player of the Year in 1990 and led the Orange to the 1987 NCAA Championship game. NBA Career: Selected first overall in the 1990 NBA Draft, Coleman played for several teams, including the New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Detroit Pistons. He was the 1991 NBA Rookie of the Year and had a solid NBA career.
- Pearl Washington: Years at Syracuse: 1983-1986 Position: Guard Collegiate Achievements: Washington’s electrifying style of play made him a fan favorite during his time at Syracuse. He was a two-time All-Big East selection and helped lead the Orange to the NCAA Tournament in 1984 and 1986. NBA Career: Washington played two seasons in the NBA with the New Jersey Nets before continuing his professional career overseas.
- Sherman Douglas: Years at Syracuse: 1985-1989 Position: Guard Collegiate Achievements: Douglas ranks as one of the most accomplished point guards in Syracuse history. He holds the NCAA record for career assists per game (8.6) and led the Orange to three NCAA Tournament appearances. NBA Career: Douglas had a solid NBA career, playing for the Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and other teams. He was known for his playmaking abilities and had several productive seasons in the league.
- Carmelo Anthony: Years at Syracuse: 2002-2003 Position: Forward Collegiate Achievements: Anthony’s impact on Syracuse basketball was immediate. He led the Orange to the 2003 NCAA Championship, earning the Most Outstanding Player award. Anthony averaged 22.2 points and 10.0 rebounds per game during his lone collegiate season. NBA Career: Anthony has had a remarkable NBA career, playing for various teams, including the Denver Nuggets, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers. He is a 10-time NBA All-Star and one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history.
- Rony Seikaly: Years at Syracuse: 1984-1988 Position: Center Collegiate Achievements: Seikaly played a pivotal role in Syracuse’s success, particularly during the 1987 NCAA Tournament run. He averaged a double-double during his senior season and was an All-Big East selection. NBA Career: Seikaly had a productive NBA career, primarily with the Miami Heat. He was known for his rebounding prowess and consistent scoring ability.
- Billy Owens: Years at Syracuse: 1988-1991 Position: Forward Collegiate Achievements: Owens was a key contributor during his time at Syracuse. He earned Big East Player of the Year honors in 1991 and led the Orange to three NCAA Tournament appearances. NBA Career: Owens played in the NBA for several teams, including the Golden State Warriors and the Miami Heat. While injuries hampered his career, he had several noteworthy seasons.
- Lawrence Moten: Years at Syracuse: 1991-1995 Position: Guard Collegiate Achievements: Moten is the all-time leading scorer in Syracuse University history, tallying 2,334 points during his collegiate career. He was a two-time All-Big East selection and guided the Orange to three NCAA Tournament appearances. NBA Career: Moten had a brief stint in the NBA, playing for the Vancouver Grizzlies during the 1995-1996 season. He continued his professional career overseas.
- John Wallace: Years at Syracuse: 1992-1996 Position: Forward Collegiate Achievements: Wallace’s impact on Syracuse basketball was profound. He led the Orange to the 1996 NCAA Championship game, earning the Most Outstanding Player award. Wallace ranks second in career points scored at Syracuse with 2,119. NBA Career: Wallace played in the NBA for the New York Knicks, Toronto Raptors, and other teams. He had a decent NBA career and made valuable contributions to his teams.
- Gerry McNamara: Years at Syracuse: 2002-2006 Position: Guard Collegiate Achievements: McNamara was a revered figure at Syracuse, renowned for his clutch shooting and leadership. He played a pivotal role in Syracuse’s memorable run to the 2003 NCAA Championship and finished his career as the school’s all-time leader in made three-pointers. NBA Career: McNamara did not have a significant NBA career, but he transitioned into coaching and currently serves as an assistant coach at Syracuse University.
Syracuse University has witnessed the emergence of numerous basketball legends, each leaving an indelible mark on the program’s storied history. From the scoring prowess of Dave Bing and Carmelo Anthony to the playmaking abilities of Sherman Douglas and Lawrence Moten, these exceptional athletes have showcased their skills both in college and in the NBA. The Syracuse Orange will continue to cherish and celebrate the contributions of these ten remarkable players for generations to come.
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