Syracuse Snaps Losing Streak With Win Over Notre Dame

Orange shoot 61% in first half, led by J.J. Starling's 17 points

Feb. 1, 2026 at 7:31am

The Syracuse University men's basketball team snapped its four-game losing streak with an 86-72 victory over Notre Dame at the JMA Wireless Dome on Saturday night. J.J. Starling led the way for the Orange, scoring 17 of his 21 points in the first half, as Syracuse shot 61% from the floor and hit six 3-pointers before halftime. Nate Kingz took over in the second half, pacing the Syracuse attack with 28 points. The Orange shot 57% from the field overall and only turned the ball over six times, while out-rebounding Notre Dame by six.

Why it matters

This win helps Syracuse get back on track after a four-game losing streak, keeping their hopes alive for a potential postseason berth. The Orange's strong shooting performance and balanced scoring attack were key factors in the victory over a conference opponent.

The details

Syracuse led by nine points at halftime and maintained their lead throughout the second half, with Nate Kingz scoring 28 points to lead the way. William Kyle III added 10 points and 8 rebounds, while Naithan George dished out 10 assists. The Orange shot 57% from the field and hit 10 3-pointers, while only turning the ball over 6 times.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 1, 2026.
  • Syracuse's next game is on Monday, February 3, 2026 against 16th-ranked UNC.

The players

J.J. Starling

A Syracuse player who scored 17 of his 21 points in the first half to help the Orange build an early lead.

Nate Kingz

A Syracuse player who took over in the second half, scoring 28 points to lead the Orange to victory.

William Kyle III

A Syracuse player who contributed 10 points and 8 rebounds to the Orange's win.

Naithan George

A Syracuse player who dished out 10 assists to help facilitate the Orange's offense.

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What’s next

Syracuse will look to build on this win when they travel to Chapel Hill, North Carolina to take on 16th-ranked UNC on Monday, February 3, 2026 at 7 p.m. on ESPN.

The takeaway

Syracuse's strong shooting performance and balanced scoring attack were key factors in their victory over Notre Dame, snapping a four-game losing streak and keeping their postseason hopes alive.