The Syracuse Orange men's basketball program is confronting a pivotal transition as Donnie Freeman, who led the team in points and rebounds last season, has entered the transfer portal. His exit creates a sizable void at the power forward position, a spot that has been a cornerstone of the Orange’s interior play.
A Fresh Start for Sadiq White
Sadiq White, a sophomore who showed flashes of impact as a freshman, is slated to inherit the starting role. Coach Gerry McNamara believes White’s athleticism and improving skill set make him the most ready candidate to shoulder the responsibilities that Freeman once held.
Adding depth, Francis Folefac arrives from Siena, where he averaged 11.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game. His performance against Duke in the NCAA Tournament — 18 points and seven rebounds — highlights his ability to compete on a national stage, and his versatility could see him contribute both as a starter and a spark plug off the bench.
Tasman Goodrick, another Siena transfer, brings a different skill set. Though he primarily backed up at center for the Saints, his size and rebounding prowess allow him to slide into the power forward spot when needed, providing the Orange with additional frontcourt resilience.
Mark Morano Mahmutovic, typically a wing, may also see minutes at power forward in small lineups, offering spacing and perimeter defense. His inclusion underscores the coaching staff’s willingness to experiment with flexible formations as they fine‑tune the roster.
The development of this group will be crucial for Syracuse’s ambitions in the 2026‑27 campaign. With a blend of home‑grown talent and experienced transfers, the Orange hope to restore balance in the paint and maintain competitiveness in the highly contested ACC.