Syracuse Beats New Haven 74-58 in McNamara Debut

Gerry McNamara’s first regular-season game as Syracuse’s head coach came days after his father, Gerard, died at 78 following a battle with cancer; McNamara said the national anthem and his father’s military service stirred his grief, while focusing on the team offered a temporary distraction. Syracuse opened its season with a 74-58 home win over New Haven, surging to an 18-0 lead and holding New Haven to 25.9% shooting in the first half. The Orange led by 22 at halftime and built a lead as large as 28 before easing off after the break. Kiyan Anthony scored 17 points, and Gavin Doty and Sadiq White Jr. each recorded double-doubles; McNamara said he was unhappy with the team’s performance despite the win. Syracuse hired McNamara after he led Siena to the 2026 MAAC Tournament title, while New Haven entered the season after finishing 14-17 the previous year.