PITTSBURGH — In a thrilling matchup on Tuesday evening, Ishmael Leggett and Zack Austin each contributed 19 points, leading Pittsburgh to a comeback victory over Syracuse with a final score of 80-69. The Panthers overcame an early 11-point deficit to secure the win.

Syracuse started strong in the second half, with Eddie Lampkin Jr. powering through for a dunk, pushing their lead to 45-34. However, Pittsburgh responded with a 17-6 run that tied the game at 51. It was Leggett’s three-pointer with 9:28 left in the game that put the Panthers ahead for good at 58-56.

Together, Leggett and Austin showcased their shooting skills, combining for an impressive 14 out of 24 from the field, including 6 out of 9 from beyond the arc. Jaland Lowe added 17 points, while Brandin Cummings contributed 11. The team’s shooting improved significantly after halftime, moving from a lackluster 37% (11 of 30) in the first half to an outstanding 62.5% (15 of 24) in the second half.

With this victory, Pittsburgh, now sitting at 16-10 overall and 7-8 in the Atlantic Coast Conference, has bounced back by winning consecutive games following a four-game losing streak. Earlier this month, they also defeated Syracuse 77-73 on January 25.

For Syracuse, Chris Bell emerged as the standout player, sinking 7 of 12 three-pointers and finishing with 23 points, although the team now finds itself in a tough stretch, having lost four of its last five games. J.J. Starling also contributed with 14 points.

Syracuse initially took control of the game, starting off with a 16-6 burst and leading 41-34 at halftime, with Bell and Starling combining for 25 of those points, including seven three-pointers. Austin kept Pittsburgh competitive with nine points in the first half.

Looking ahead, Pittsburgh will face Notre Dame on Saturday, while Syracuse is set to host N.C. State on February 26.