SYRACUSE, N.Y. (Interstat) — A surging Syracuse women’s basketball team looks to continue its strong start when it hosts in-state foe Colgate at the Carrier Dome on Wednesday. The Orange (8-1) have won seven straight games since a road loss to Michigan on Nov. 23, most recently defeating SMU 78-69 on Sunday. Guard Sophie Burrows has been instrumental, averaging 16.3 points, 5.3 assists and 4.3 rebounds over her last three contests. She posted a season-high 22 points, six rebounds and five assists in the win at SMU. Syracuse’s defense has been a cornerstone, holding opponents to an average of 54.2 points during its winning streak. Center Izoje Uche anchors that effort, recording eight blocks against SMU. Colgate (4-4) seeks to steady itself after dropping four of its last five games, including a 70-64 overtime loss to Delaware on Dec. 5. The Raiders rely on guard Tatiana Matthews, who scored 14 points in that defeat, and Ella Meabon, who poured in a career-high 24 points. The Raiders have struggled offensively during their slump, failing to reach 65 points in any of the four recent losses. They will face a significant challenge against a Syracuse defense allowing just 60.2 points per game. This nonconference matchup precedes Syracuse’s entry into a rigorous Atlantic Coast Conference schedule, while Colgate will turn its focus to Patriot League play later this month. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EST Wednesday at the Carrier Dome.