Donnie Freeman’s Availability for Syracuse vs. Tennessee: Latest Update
Syracuse is set to face Tennessee, but the team will be without forward Donnie Freeman. A university spokesperson has confirmed his absence. Pete Moore, the director of athletic communications, provided this update via email.
Donnie Freeman’s Current Status
Freeman is a 6-foot-9 sophomore who has been a key player for the Orange. He led the team with an impressive average of 17.8 points per game during the first four matches of the season. Syracuse enjoyed success in those games, winning all four.
Recent Challenges
However, Freeman did not participate in the last three games at the Players Era Festival held in Las Vegas. His foot injury necessitated him wearing a walking boot, raising concerns among fans and coaches alike.
- Syracuse lost all three tournament games in Vegas.
- The defeats included an overtime loss to Houston.
- Kansas triumphed over SU with a 71-60 scoreline.
- A blowout loss of 95-64 came against Iowa State.
All three opponents were ranked within the top 20 of the NCAA’s NET rankings. Following the tournament, Syracuse sits in a challenging position with the upcoming match against Tennessee.
Impact of Freeman’s Injury
Freeman’s previous injury history is also notable; he missed the final 19 games of the 2024-25 season due to a similar foot injury. Despite these setbacks, Syracuse’s head coach, Autry, remains optimistic. He recently stated that Freeman’s current injury is not season-ending, describing it as merely a “quick pause.”
Autry emphasized that, while he does not have all the details, the coaching staff is hopeful for Freeman’s return. The team aims to rebound against Tennessee, currently ranked 13th in the NET.
Syracuse’s performance will heavily depend on how they adapt to Freeman’s absence against a formidable opponent like Tennessee.
