Syracuse University’s men’s basketball team is set to open its non‑conference slate with a pair of home contests that promise to stir the memories of past glories.
The Orange will welcome Colgate on December 8, followed by a showdown with Canisius on December 16, games that sit against a backdrop of long‑standing series advantages and coaching narratives that have shaped the rivalry.
A legacy of dominance
Syracuse has long held a commanding edge over Colgate, boasting a 129‑47 record that stretches back decades, a statistic that underscores the Orange’s historical superiority and adds a layer of anticipation to the upcoming meeting.
The matchup also marks a reunion for Gerry McNamara, whose own playing days against Canisius produced two decisive victories, and whose current role as head coach adds a personal stake to the December 16 contest.
Coaching connections that bind
Jim Christian, now at the helm of Canisius after stints at Boston College, previously faced Syracuse four times as a head coach, compiling a 3‑1 record that reflects both respect and competition; his career trajectory from Boston College to the MAAC adds a narrative thread that weaves through the upcoming game.
Meanwhile, Matt Langel’s Colgate squad, which finished the 2025‑26 season at 18‑15 overall and 11‑7 in the Patriot League, brings a fresh perspective to the Orange’s schedule, while Nate Fouts, a transfer from Le Moyne, is expected to be a pivotal piece for Canisius as the team undergoes a complete roster overhaul.
A broader non‑conference slate
Beyond the two highlighted opponents, Syracuse’s schedule also includes exhibitions against New Haven, Indiana, Lafayette, Oklahoma, Providence, St. John’s and Rutgers, while its ACC slate will pit the Orange against traditional powerhouses such as Duke, North Carolina, Virginia and Louisville, promising a season rich in varied challenges.
The blend of historic rivalries, coaching storylines and a packed itinerary sets the stage for a campaign that could define the Orange’s early trajectory, drawing attention from fans and analysts alike.