Syracuse got back in the win column and remained undefeated against Wake Forest.

The good news? The Syracuse Orange didn’t lose to an adult beverage (John Collins) and the Wake Forest Demon Deacs. The bad news? Syracuse has a record of 12-9 after the 81-76 win. Nonetheless, Syracuse earned a victory by competing in a tight game down the stretch, a positive sign.

The adult beverage himself had a near double-double in the first half by scoring 13 points and hauling in 9 rebounds. Once Tyler Roberson picked up two quick fouls, Dajuan Coleman entered the game and did a solid job, all things considered. Coleman didn’t allow Collins to get good post position, but Collins did find gaps in the zone for five offensive rebounds. In a defensive battle, Wake took a 32-29 lead into the break.

The second half continued to be a grind-it-out affair as both teams battled on the defensive end. Syracuse and Wake traded baskets and defensive stops in what was a close game throughout.

Andrew White broke the tie with 1:20 remaining by knocking down a clutch triple, but Konstantinos Mitoglou responded with a long two. Tyler Lydon then knocked down a three on the ensuing possession, but Wake once again responded, this time with a three. Wake would then play the foul game and clutch free throws from Lydon, White and Taurean Thompson helped seal the victory late as Syracuse remained unbeaten all-time against Wake.

Stats

White had a big game by scoring 27 with five triples and went a perfect 10-10 from the line. Thompson had a great night on the offensive end by scoring 18 points. Lydon had 15 points and 9 rebounds while Tyus Battle had 8 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. John Collins had 23 points and 12 rebounds for Wake.

Next up

Syracuse turns around to host the No. 6 ranked Florida State Seminoles on Saturday. That game tips off at 12 pm from the Carrier Dome and will air on ESPN2.