Star Players J.J. Starling And Donnie Freeman Return To Syracuse

Syracuse basketball fans received a much-needed boost on March 25, 2025, when junior guard J.J. Starling and freshman forward Donnie Freeman announced their decision to return for the 2025-26 season. This news comes as a relief for a program that has faced significant challenges, including a disappointing 14-19 record last season and multiple player departures through the transfer portal.

Starling, who emerged as Syracuse's leading scorer with an impressive average of 17.8 points per game, expressed his excitement about returning. "I feel like I owe it to Orange Nation to run it back and get things back to the Orange Standard," Freeman stated on social media, highlighting his commitment to the team and its fanbase.

Both players faced injuries that limited their contributions during the previous season. Starling missed seven games due to a broken left hand, while Freeman's season was cut short after just 14 appearances due to a foot injury that required surgery. Despite these setbacks, the duo's potential impact on the upcoming season is immense.

Starling not only led the team in scoring but also averaged 34.6 minutes per game, showcasing his importance to the Orange's offensive strategy. He was recognized as an honorable mention on the All-ACC team, finishing seventh in the league in scoring. His standout performance included a career-high 38 points in a thrilling double-overtime victory against Youngstown State.

Freeman, who was highly regarded as the highest recruit at Syracuse since Carmelo Anthony, averaged 13.4 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. His presence in the paint was felt, as he recorded six double-doubles and demonstrated his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. Freeman's shooting efficiency was commendable, converting 50.4% of his field goals and 79.6% from the free-throw line.

The announcement of Starling and Freeman's return is particularly significant given the recent departures from the team. Players such as Chris Bell, Kyle Cuffe Jr., and Elijah Moore have entered the transfer portal, leaving gaps in the roster. However, the return of Starling and Freeman provides a solid foundation for the Orange moving forward.

As Syracuse prepares for the next season, they are also looking to bolster their roster through recruiting. The program has secured a top-ten recruiting class, bringing in three four-star freshmen: shooting guard Kiyan Anthony, forward Sadiq White Jr., and combo guard Luke Fennell, along with three-star forward Aaron Womack. This influx of talent, coupled with the returning stars, creates a promising outlook for the team.

Looking ahead, Syracuse's coaching staff, led by General Manager Alex Kline, is focused on addressing key areas of need through the transfer portal. The team is particularly seeking a true point guard and a small forward who can shoot effectively from long range. With scholarships available and a solid core of returning players, the Orange are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.

In summary, the commitment of J.J. Starling and Donnie Freeman to return to Syracuse for the 2025-26 season is a major victory for the program. Their individual talents and leadership will be crucial as the team looks to rebound from a challenging previous season and aim for greater success in the ACC and beyond. Syracuse fans can look forward to a season filled with hope, excitement, and the potential for a return to the NCAA Tournament.