Pena re-establishing himself in Syracuse offense

Former walk-on finds his niche as effective role player during ACC opener

But one player who provided a spark was redshirt junior guard Symir Torrence.

Torrence, who started the game in place of injured Joe Girard III, scored 11 points in the first half, including a pair of 3-pointers.

He finished the game with 15 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists.

"I thought Symir played really well," Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim said. "He made some big shots for us."

Torrence has been a consistent contributor for Syracuse this season, averaging 9.1 points per game.

He has started the last two games in place of Girard, who is dealing with a back injury.

Torrence said he is comfortable playing either guard position.

"I just try to go out there and play my game," Torrence said. "I'm just trying to help the team win."

Torrence's emergence has been a key factor in Syracuse's recent success.

The Orange have won three of their last four games, including a win over Louisville on Saturday.

Torrence has played a big role in all three wins.

"He's a tough kid," Boeheim said. "He's a good defender. He can make shots. He's a good all-around player."

Torrence is one of several players who have stepped up for Syracuse this season.

The Orange have been without Girard for the last two games, and they have also been without center Jesse Edwards for the last four games.

But Syracuse has found a way to win without its two most experienced players.

"We've had a lot of guys step up," Torrence said. "We've got a lot of guys who can play."

Torrence is one of those guys.

He has proven to be a valuable asset for Syracuse, and he is playing a key role in the Orange's success.