Recap: Pittsburgh 74, Syracuse 66

In a game of streaks, Syracuse was just one hot streak away from pulling out a victory in Pittsburgh. Instead, the Panthers handed the Orange their first loss of the season and gained sole possession of first place in the Big East.

Pittsburgh (18-1, 6-0) nearly delivered a knockout blow in the early going, starting the game on a 19-0 run. Syracuse (18-1, 5-1) started especially slowly tonight, even for them, taking over 8 minutes to score. Once they did, though, they caught fire, going on a 17-0 run to make it a two point game.

Pittsburgh went on another run midway through the second half, gaining a 55-47 lead with just under 9 minutes remaining. The Orange would not get within 5 for the rest of the game.

Pitt cut through Syracuse' 2-3 zone with superb passing time after time, totaling 18 assists. Nasir Robinson was the main beneficiary, exploding for a game high 21 points. The Panthers maintained balance offensively with four scorers in double digits.

They also dominated the Orange on the glass, grabbing 41 rebounds (9 offensive) to Syracuse' 25. The Orange did not help themselves at the free throw line, making only 8 of 15.

C.J. Fair shoots against Pitt's Brad Wanamaker (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)

There were some bright spots in all of this, though. C.J. Fair led the way with 16 points and 9 rebounds, and fellow freshman Dion Waiters recorded 9 points, 6 rebounds and 2 steals. Rick Jackson recorded his 12th double double of the season with 10 points and 11 rebounds.

Nonetheless, Kris Joseph's absence was still felt. Without its leading scorer, Syracuse shot less than 40% from the field, and its half court offense looked stagnant at times.

Looking ahead, Syracuse will play Villanova on Saturday in the Carrier Dome.