Georgetown defeats top-seeded Syracuse
Georgetown’s final destination is far from determined. But there no longer is any doubt that the Hoyas are heading in the right direction.
In their 91-84 upset of Big East top seed Syracuse (28-4) in the conference quarterfinals, the Hoyas (22-9) played with the focus, discipline and relentless effort of a confident group. After stumbling down the stretch and failing in their first two attempts against the Orange, the Hoyas finally proved their mettle.
Georgetown, which has been frustratingly inconsistent with big wins and bad defeats this year, will get a chance to beat a third consecutive team that it lost to during the regular season when it faces Marquette (22-10) in the Big East semifinals.
“I don’t think this team lacks confidence,” said Hoyas junior guard Chris Wright (27 points, 6 assists, 6 rebounds), who summoned the best and most balanced performance of his career. “I just think we’re ready to play.”
When Wright wasn’t crisply running Georgetown’s fast break or fighting for tough baskets late in the shot clock, sophomore center Greg Monroe was orchestrating the Hoyas’ half-court attack, finishing just shy of a triple double with 15 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists. Austin Freeman, in his third game back after learning he has diabetes, had 18 points. Jason Clark added 17.
Big East player of the year Wes Johnson’s 24 points and seven rebounds were overshadowed by the Orange’s loss of Lanham native Arinze Onuaku, who left the game late with a right knee injury.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
