This past Sunday, the Syracuse Orange defeated St. John's University in an intense Big East match-up. The Orange came out on top with a final score of 76-74, avenging an earlier loss this year to the Red Storm.
Demetris Nichols led the Orange with a career high 37 points, moving him into 38th on the SU all-time scoring list. Nichols also made a career high seven three-pointers. Supporting Nichols' high scoring antics was Darryl Watkins, who turned in a solid game with 11 points and six blocks, giving him 81 on the season.
The Orange trailed 34-31 at the half but Nichols came to the rescue, making seven straight shots, including three beyond the arc, giving him 17 of SU's first 20 points in the second half. This gave the Orange their largest lead of the game at 51-45.
However, St. John's stormed back to take a one-point lead, led by Anthony Mason who finished with 21 points. Syracuse refused to give up though and after missing six straight free throws, they converted five out of their last six in the final minute.
After Wednesday's matchup against South Florida, the Orange's next game is on Saturday at home against Connecticut.