Brissett Posts Double-Double Against Rockets

Syracuse's big men were in foul trouble from almost from the opening tip against Toledo. Paschal Chukwu had two fouls in the first four minutes and had three at halftime, while Bourama Sidibe picked up a pair of fouls before intermission. The Orange needed someone to pick up the slack in the middle and freshman Oshae Brissett was up to the challenge.

The Mississauga, Ontario native recorded his second double-double of the season with career highs in points (17) and rebounds (14). Brissett's play was especially crucial in the second half when he scored 10 points and grabbed eight rebounds as Syracuse fought off a Toledo come-back attempt.

After falling behind for the first time at the start of the second half, the Orange used an 11-0 run to take a nine-point lead. But the Rockets fought back to get within three at 44-41 at the 12:25 mark. Brisett hit a 3-pointer to spark Syracuse on a 8-0 scoring run to again put the Orange up by 11, 52-41, with 10:54 remaining. He had three points, a defensive rebound and a blocked shot during the run. The Orange eventually led by as many as 14 and went on to their fifth straight victory to start the season.

"I thought Frank (Howard) and Oshae (Brissett) were the difference in the second half," head coach Jim Boeheim said. "Oshae got aggressive and got to the basket -- really, really went to the basket well and finished."

Brissett has reached double figures in rebounds in three of five games this season and leads the team on the boards, averaging 9.2 per game. In addition, he's adding 11.6 points per contest.

Syracuse looks to extend its winning streak against rv/rv Maryland on Monday, Nov. 27 at 7 p.m. in the Carrier Dome. The game is part of the Big Ten/ACC Challenge. Tickets can be purchased at Cuse.com, Gate B at the Carrier Dome and by calling 1-888-DOMETIX.

Syracuse University Athletics

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Oshae Brissett

Paschal Chukwu

Bourama Sidibe

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