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Syracuse Basketball Faces Crossroads Amidst Coaching Speculation

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 12:39 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: New York, Virginia, North Carolina, UNITED STATES

Syracuse, NY - February 20, 2026 - The Syracuse Orange basketball program finds itself at a crossroads. With a current record of 17-13 (9-10 in the ACC) heading into their final regular season game against Boston College, the team is underperforming expectations, leading to growing speculation about the future of second-year head coach Adrian Autry. While Athletic Director John Wildhack has publicly voiced support, the whispers of potential replacements are becoming increasingly audible, signaling a potentially significant shift in leadership for the storied program.

Autry, who took the helm after a successful run as an assistant under Jim Boeheim, enjoyed a promising first season, posting a 20-12 record. However, the current season's struggles - a notable dip from initial projections - have understandably raised concerns among fans and university officials. The Orange have lacked consistency, struggling to find offensive rhythm and defensive solidity, particularly against stronger ACC competition. This inconsistency, coupled with a lack of clear improvement in key areas, is fueling the debate surrounding Autry's long-term viability as head coach.

The financial implications of a coaching change are substantial. Reportedly, a buyout of Autry's contract would be in the vicinity of $19 million - a significant sum that Wildhack and the Syracuse leadership will undoubtedly consider carefully. However, the potential return on investment from a successful coaching hire could outweigh the immediate financial burden, especially given the program's historical significance and fervent fan base. The decision isn't simply about removing a coach; it's about strategically positioning the program for sustained success in a rapidly evolving college basketball landscape.

Two names have emerged as prominent contenders should Syracuse opt to pursue a change: Dave Leitao and Jim Larranaga.

Dave Leitao: A Familiar Face

Leitao is no stranger to Syracuse basketball. He served as the Orange's head coach from 2000 to 2006, compiling a strong 194-92 record and leading the team to two NCAA Tournament appearances. His intimate knowledge of the program, the recruiting landscape in the Northeast, and the expectations of the Syracuse fanbase represent a compelling argument in his favor. Leitao's previous tenure showcased his ability to build a competitive program at Syracuse, and a return could offer a sense of stability and continuity.

However, his departure from Syracuse was not without controversy. Despite consistent winning seasons, questions about his recruiting approach and overall program direction ultimately led to his dismissal. Furthermore, Leitao has spent the last several years as an assistant coach at DePaul, leaving some to question whether he has the current head coaching experience necessary to immediately revitalize the Orange.

Jim Larranaga: The Proven Winner

Currently leading the Miami Hurricanes, Jim Larranaga boasts a proven track record of success. He has guided Miami to six NCAA Tournament appearances and established a reputation as a masterful offensive strategist and player developer. Larranaga's Hurricanes are consistently among the nation's elite offensive teams, known for their ball movement, shooting prowess, and adaptability. Bringing that offensive firepower to Syracuse could immediately address one of the team's most pressing weaknesses.

However, securing Larranaga's services would be a significant challenge. He is highly regarded within the coaching community and likely commands a substantial salary and a long-term commitment. Furthermore, there's no guarantee he would be interested in leaving Miami, where he has built a successful program and enjoys a comfortable level of stability. His age, while bringing experience, might also be a consideration for a program seeking a coach to build a long-term dynasty.

The Path Forward

The decision facing John Wildhack is complex. Simply acknowledging Autry's struggles isn't enough; a strategic assessment of the program's needs and a clear vision for the future are paramount. A deep dive into recruiting pipelines, player development philosophies, and offensive/defensive strategies will be critical in determining the best course of action. While acknowledging the financial implications of a buyout, Wildhack must prioritize long-term success over short-term savings.

If Syracuse chooses to move on from Autry, the allure of a familiar face like Leitao provides a degree of comfort and institutional knowledge. However, the potential upside of a proven winner and offensive innovator like Larranaga may be too tempting to ignore. The next few weeks will be crucial as Syracuse navigates this critical juncture and determines the future direction of its basketball program. The ACC Tournament will undoubtedly serve as a proving ground for Autry, with his performance likely playing a significant role in Wildhack's final decision.