Syracuse, N.Y. – In a thrilling display of teamwork and resilience, the Syracuse women’s basketball team used every ounce of their roster to storm back from a deficit and secure a powerful 62-50 victory over Wake Forest at the JMA Wireless Dome. After trailing for most of the game, the Orange unleashed an electrifying 11-0 run in the final quarter to snatch the win, proving their depth and determination.
With 12 out of 13 players hitting the floor, Syracuse showcased one of their most balanced performances of the season. Every player contributed in some form, whether scoring, grabbing rebounds, or providing critical plays that fueled the comeback. This victory marks the first time since December that the Orange have secured back-to-back wins, bringing their record to 10-13 overall and 4-8 in the ACC.
The game didn’t start off smooth, however. Head coach Felisha Legette-Jack noticed the sluggishness early on, admitting to her team during shootaround that they needed to find their rhythm. “We were flat, and we came out flat,” she said. But the team found a spark thanks to an unexpected source—13th player Lexi McNabb. From the bench, McNabb observed Wake Forest’s tactics and gave crucial insights that led to strategic adjustments, including a shift to a flex-screen offense that ignited the Orange offense.
Syracuse’s game plan evolved further as Legette-Jack adapted her defense, switching to a zone formation that stifled the Demon Deacons. Key players like Saniaa Wilson, who dominated the paint with seven rebounds and three points, and freshman Olivia Schmitt, whose defensive pressure was a game-changer, stepped up when needed most.
As the game progressed, Syracuse’s energy soared, and the shots began to fall. In the final minutes, a career-high fifth steal from Sophie Burrows sparked the decisive play—she fed Georgia Woolley, who sank a clutch three-pointer to give Syracuse a commanding two-possession lead with just 2:40 remaining.
“It gave us all that energy boost,” Woolley said of the moment. “But Sophie’s pass made it happen.”
With every player contributing, Syracuse’s win wasn’t just a victory—it was a testament to their unity, determination, and never-say-die attitude. The Orange will look to keep the momentum rolling in their next challenge. Watch out—the full force of this team is ready to take on anything!
