Syracuse University’s men’s basketball program has announced that it will welcome Canisius to the JMA Wireless Dome on December 16, 2026, marking the latest addition to its non‑conference slate for the 2026‑27 season.
Reviving a Classic Rivalry
The upcoming meeting will extend a series that began in the 1944‑45 season and currently favors the Orange, who hold a 47‑24 edge over the Metro Conference opponent. The two squads last met in November 2023, when Syracuse pulled away with an 89‑77 victory, a game in which sophomore point guard Judah Mintz contributed 26 points.
Coach Gerry McNamara, who has been shaping the Orange’s strategy, indicated that the schedule includes a handful of contests against power‑conference opponents, with four neutral‑site dates and a true road test at Oklahoma among the highlights.
A Busy Road Ahead
Beyond the Canisius matchup, the Orange will also face New Haven, Central Connecticut State, Indiana, Lafayette, Colgate, Providence, St. John’s, Rutgers and Albany as part of a 14‑game non‑conference lineup that blends regional rivals with nationally recognized programs.
The 2026‑27 campaign is slated to feature 18 Atlantic Coast Conference battles alongside the non‑conference slate, giving the team a demanding early schedule that tests depth and resilience. Early reports suggest the Orange are positioned to contend for a strong postseason profile, provided they can translate home‑court advantage into consistent performances.