Syracuse 2003 Basketball Roster: Where Are They Now?

The 2003 Syracuse Orange men's basketball team captured the hearts of fans with their thrilling run to the national championship. Led by freshman sensation Carmelo Anthony and coached by the legendary Jim Boeheim, this team etched its name in college basketball history. But what happened to the players on that memorable Syracuse 2003 basketball roster? Let's take a look at each player and see where they are now.

The Starting Five

Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo Anthony, the freshman phenom, was the undisputed star of the 2003 Syracuse team. His incredible scoring ability, clutch performances, and infectious enthusiasm made him an instant fan favorite. During that championship season, Anthony averaged 22.2 points and 10.0 rebounds per game, earning him the NCAA Tournament's Most Outstanding Player award. After his stellar freshman year, Carmelo entered the 2003 NBA Draft and was selected third overall by the Denver Nuggets. In the NBA, Anthony had a remarkable career, playing for the Nuggets, New York Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Los Angeles Lakers. A ten-time NBA All-Star and one-time scoring champion, Anthony established himself as one of the premier scorers of his generation. Beyond his NBA achievements, Carmelo also represented the United States in the Olympics, winning three gold medals. Off the court, Anthony has been involved in various philanthropic endeavors, focusing on community development and social justice. His impact extends beyond basketball, making him a role model for many. Even after retiring from professional basketball, Carmelo remains a prominent figure in the sports world, often appearing as an analyst and commentator, sharing his insights and experiences with fans. His legacy as a Syracuse legend and NBA star is firmly cemented, and his contributions to the game continue to be celebrated.

Gerry McNamara

Gerry McNamara, the heart and soul of the Syracuse Orange, was known for his clutch shooting and unwavering determination. As a freshman in 2003, McNamara played a crucial role in the team's championship run, hitting numerous big shots and providing invaluable leadership. His performance in the NCAA Tournament, particularly his sharpshooting from beyond the arc, solidified his status as a fan favorite. Throughout his Syracuse career, McNamara became one of the program's all-time leading scorers and a symbol of grit and perseverance. After graduating from Syracuse, McNamara briefly pursued a professional basketball career overseas before returning to his alma mater. He joined Jim Boeheim's coaching staff as a graduate assistant and later became a full-time assistant coach. McNamara's transition from player to coach allowed him to continue impacting the program he loved, mentoring young players and contributing to the team's success. As a coach, he has been instrumental in player development and game strategy, helping to guide the Orange to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. McNamara's deep understanding of the game, combined with his passion for Syracuse basketball, makes him an invaluable asset to the coaching staff. His dedication to the program and his ability to connect with players have earned him the respect of both his colleagues and the Syracuse community. McNamara remains a beloved figure in Syracuse, recognized for his contributions as both a player and a coach.

Hakim Warrick

Hakim Warrick, the athletic forward, was a key component of Syracuse's championship team. His length, athleticism, and defensive prowess made him a versatile player who could impact the game in multiple ways. Warrick's most memorable moment came in the championship game against Kansas, where his game-winning block sealed the victory for the Orange. During the 2003 season, Warrick averaged 12.7 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability to score and rebound effectively. After his junior year, Warrick entered the 2005 NBA Draft and was selected 19th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies. In the NBA, Warrick played for several teams, including the Grizzlies, Milwaukee Bucks, Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Hornets, Phoenix Suns, and Charlotte Bobcats. While he never reached the same level of stardom as Carmelo Anthony, Warrick had a solid NBA career as a valuable role player. Following his NBA career, Warrick played professionally overseas in countries such as China, Turkey and Australia. Known for his athleticism and versatility, Warrick continued to contribute to teams around the globe. After retiring from professional basketball, Warrick has remained involved in various ventures, including coaching and community work. He has also been involved in youth development programs, using his basketball experience to mentor young athletes. Warrick's legacy as a Syracuse champion and NBA veteran is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game.

Kueth Duany

Kueth Duany, the reliable guard, was a steady presence in the Syracuse backcourt. His ball-handling skills, defensive tenacity, and ability to knock down open shots made him a valuable contributor to the team. Duany's calm demeanor and experience helped to stabilize the Orange during crucial moments in the NCAA Tournament. Throughout the 2003 season, Duany averaged 7.5 points per game, providing consistent scoring and solid defense. After graduating from Syracuse, Duany pursued a professional basketball career overseas, playing in various leagues around the world. His international career took him to countries such as Italy, France, and Greece, where he continued to showcase his skills and leadership. Duany's experience playing in different basketball cultures enriched his understanding of the game and broadened his perspective. After retiring from professional basketball, Duany has remained involved in the sport as a coach and mentor. He has worked with youth basketball programs, helping young players develop their skills and passion for the game. Duany's commitment to giving back to the community and sharing his basketball knowledge has made him a respected figure in the sport. His contributions to the 2003 Syracuse team and his subsequent career as a player and coach have left a lasting impact.

Billy Edelin

Billy Edelin, the talented point guard, was a highly touted recruit who brought athleticism and playmaking ability to the Syracuse team. As a freshman in 2003, Edelin showed flashes of brilliance, displaying his court vision and ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. While his playing time was limited, Edelin's potential was evident, and he was expected to play a significant role in the team's future. However, Edelin's career at Syracuse was marred by off-court issues, which ultimately led to his departure from the program. Despite the challenges he faced, Edelin continued to pursue his basketball career, playing professionally in various leagues. He showcased his skills and athleticism, demonstrating the talent that made him a highly regarded prospect. After his playing career, Edelin has focused on personal development and community involvement. He has worked to overcome his past challenges and become a positive influence in the lives of young people. Edelin's story serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and the potential for redemption. While his time at Syracuse was brief, his impact on the team and his journey since then have made him a memorable figure.

Other Key Players

Craig Forth

Craig Forth, the big man, provided size and strength in the paint for the Syracuse Orange. While his offensive numbers may not have been eye-popping, Forth's presence on defense and his ability to rebound were crucial to the team's success. Forth's contributions often went unnoticed, but his hard work and dedication were appreciated by his teammates and coaches. After graduating from Syracuse, Forth pursued a career outside of basketball. He has focused on his professional career and has maintained a low profile. While he may not be in the spotlight, Forth's role in the 2003 championship team remains a significant part of Syracuse basketball history. His commitment to the team and his willingness to do the dirty work made him an invaluable asset.

Josh Pace

Josh Pace, the versatile guard, was a valuable role player for the Syracuse Orange. His ability to play multiple positions, defend, and make smart decisions made him a reliable option off the bench. Pace's contributions may not have always shown up in the box score, but his impact on the game was undeniable. After graduating from Syracuse, Pace pursued a professional basketball career overseas. He played in various leagues, showcasing his skills and versatility. Pace's international experience broadened his perspective and allowed him to experience different cultures. After retiring from professional basketball, Pace has remained involved in the sport as a coach and mentor. He has worked with young players, sharing his knowledge and passion for the game. Pace's contributions to the 2003 Syracuse team and his subsequent career as a player and coach have made him a respected figure in the basketball community.

Jeremy McNeil

Jeremy McNeil, a reserve center on the 2003 Syracuse team, contributed with his size and rebounding ability in limited minutes. Although he didn't play a significant role statistically, being part of a national championship team was a valuable experience. After his time at Syracuse, McNeil pursued opportunities in professional basketball, mainly playing overseas. His career took him to various international leagues where he continued to develop his skills and contribute to different teams. Following his basketball career, Jeremy has transitioned into other ventures, often focusing on giving back to his community and working with youth programs. His experience as a national champion has provided him with a unique perspective, which he uses to mentor young athletes and encourage them to pursue their goals with dedication and perseverance.

The Coach: Jim Boeheim

Jim Boeheim, the legendary coach of the Syracuse Orange, orchestrated the team's remarkable run to the national championship. Known for his iconic 2-3 zone defense and his ability to develop talented players, Boeheim guided the Orange to their first national title in program history. His leadership, experience, and strategic brilliance were instrumental in the team's success. Boeheim continued to coach the Syracuse Orange for many years after the 2003 championship, solidifying his status as one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history. His legacy at Syracuse is unparalleled, and his impact on the program and the university is immeasurable. Boeheim's coaching tree extends far and wide, with many of his former players and assistants going on to successful coaching careers of their own. His contributions to the game of basketball have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Boeheim's passion for the game, his commitment to his players, and his unwavering dedication to Syracuse University have made him a beloved figure in the Syracuse community and a legend in the world of college basketball.

The 2003 Syracuse Orange basketball team was a special group of players who came together to achieve something extraordinary. Their championship run captivated fans and created lasting memories. While their paths have diverged since then, the players on that team will forever be linked by their shared experience and their place in Syracuse basketball history. The legacy of the 2003 Syracuse Orange team lives on, inspiring future generations of players and fans.