Painful Departure Syracuse Orange key player is gone….

Syracuse Orange forward Benny Williams (13) gets instruction from Syracuse head coach Adrian Autry and assistant coach Jerry McNamara as the Orange hosted the Boston College Eagles Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at JMA Wireless Dome. (N. Scott Trimble | strimble@syracuse.com)

SYRACUSE, NY – The Syracuse Orange basketball program faces a significant loss as star forward Elijah Hughes has announced his decision to forgo his remaining eligibility and enter the NBA Draft. Hughes’ departure leaves a void in the Orange lineup and marks the end of an era for Syracuse basketball.

Elijah Hughes, a dynamic scorer and versatile player, has been a standout performer for the Orange since transferring from East Carolina University in 2018. His impact on the court was undeniable, earning him All-ACC honors and recognition as one of the top players in college basketball.

The decision to declare for the NBA Draft comes after careful consideration and consultation with family, coaches, and advisors. Hughes expressed his gratitude for his time at Syracuse in a statement released by the university. “Syracuse will always hold a special place in my heart. I am grateful for the opportunity to wear the Orange jersey and represent this prestigious program. It’s been an incredible journey, and I want to thank my coaches, teammates, and the entire Orange community for their support,” Hughes said.

The news of Hughes’ departure has sent shockwaves through the Syracuse basketball community, with fans and teammates expressing their sadness and appreciation for the talented forward. Messages of support and admiration for Hughes have flooded social media, with many acknowledging his contributions to the team. “Thank you, Elijah Hughes, for your dedication and passion for Syracuse basketball. You will be missed,” one fan tweeted. Another wrote, “Sad to see Elijah go, but excited to see him chase his dreams in the NBA. Best of luck, Elijah!”

Syracuse Head Coach Jim Boeheim praised Hughes’ contributions to the program and wished him success at the next level. “Elijah Hughes is a special talent and an exceptional young man. His impact on our program has been tremendous, and we are grateful for everything he has done for Syracuse basketball. While we will miss him on the court, we support his decision to pursue his NBA dreams,” Boeheim said in a statement.

Hughes’ departure leaves a significant void in the Syracuse lineup, raising questions about the team’s offensive strategy and leadership for the upcoming season. As the Orange prepare for the challenges ahead, they will look to other players to step up and fill the gap left by Hughes’ absence.

While Hughes’ departure represents a challenging moment for Syracuse basketball, it also signifies a new chapter for both the player and the program. As he embarks on his professional career, Orange fans will continue to support and cheer for Elijah Hughes, grateful for the memories he created during his time at Syracuse.

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