The highly anticipated New Year's Eve basketball clash between the Syracuse Orange and the Wake Forest Demon Deacons marks the beginning of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) season. This pivotal game will be held at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, New York, with both teams eager to make a strong statement as they enter conference play. The Orange have faced challenges this season but are looking to turn things around, while the Demon Deacons aim to build on their early success. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN2 or stream it via various platforms.

Orange Aims for Redemption in Conference Play

Syracuse enters this crucial match with a 6-6 record, including an early setback in ACC play. Despite these challenges, the team is focused on leveraging recent victories to propel them forward. Their most recent win over Bucknell showcased impressive performances from key players, highlighting the potential for a successful conference start. The Orange are determined to capitalize on their strengths and correct past mistakes to secure a win against Wake Forest.

In their last non-conference game, Syracuse demonstrated resilience and tactical prowess by defeating Bucknell with a score of 75-63. Eddie Lampkin and Donnie Freeman led the charge, each achieving double-doubles. Lampkin contributed 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Freeman added 15 points and 11 rebounds. The team's aggressive full-court press was instrumental in forcing turnovers and converting those opportunities into valuable points. As they prepare for Wake Forest, Syracuse hopes to maintain this momentum and apply similar strategies to gain an edge over their opponents.

Demon Deacons Eye Another ACC Victory

Wake Forest arrives at the JMA Wireless Dome with a promising 9-4 record and a fresh ACC win under their belt. However, the team recently suffered a loss to Clemson, which underscores the importance of maintaining consistency. The Demon Deacons will need to bring their best performance to overcome Syracuse's home advantage and competitive spirit. Both teams recognize that this game sets the tone for the rest of the conference season.

Despite the recent defeat to Clemson, Wake Forest has shown considerable promise this season. With a solid 9-4 record, they have already secured their first ACC victory, positioning them well for the remainder of the conference schedule. The Demon Deacons will face a tough opponent in Syracuse, who are eager to bounce back from their earlier ACC loss. To succeed, Wake Forest must focus on executing their game plan effectively, minimizing turnovers, and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. The outcome of this matchup could significantly impact both teams' standings and aspirations for the upcoming ACC season.