DaJuan Coleman played three minutes in Syracuse’s previous game, but remained on the bench for the entirety of the No. 2 Orange’s 57-45 win against North Carolina on Saturday in Syracuse.

Coleman said he would probably need a full week of practice to get back on the court full time. He had that leading up to the game against the Tar Heels, but head coach Jim Boeheim played it safe and left him on the sideline throughout.

“DaJuan has practiced,” he said. “He looks a little better, more mobile. He’s probably got to get a few days of practice before we can see exactly what he can do.”

With the forward out of the starting lineup, SU (16-0, 3-0 Atlantic Coast) called upon Jerami Grant to make his fourth straight start and once again shifted Rakeem Christmas to the middle of the SU zone against UNC (10-6, 0-3).

Much of the 32,121-person crowd that arrived at the Carrier Dome early got a chance to watch Coleman participate in warm-ups. Like he did before the Virginia Tech game, the sophomore participated fully, although he did wear a brace on his left leg and appeared to favor his right leg. But for the third time in four games, Coleman did not play.

Syracuse has a quick turnaround before facing Boston College on Monday at 9 p.m. in Chestnut Hill, Mass., but it leaves enough time for a bit more treatment for the Orange’s ailing forward.

Coleman’s fellow big men — Christmas and Baye Moussa Keita — have played well in his absence. Syracuse used just seven players to cruise past North Carolina anyway, but Coleman’s return would further flesh out an improving center position for the Orange.

“DaJuan’s looking great,” SU guard Trevor Cooney said. “I think his knee is looking better and stronger. He’ll be back to the old DaJuan before you know it.”

Published on January 11, 2014 at 5:02 pm

Contact David: dbwilson@syr.edu | @DBWilson2