Maybe this was the breakout game for Syracuse center Fab Melo.

The highly hyped freshman scored nine points as the Orange beat Morgan State 97-55 on Monday at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse, N.Y.

Melo, selected as the preseason Big East Rookie of the Year, has had a disappointing season but performed well Monday. In addition to his career high in points, he provided two rebounds, two assists, two steals and four blocked shots.

Monday was a good step, but Melo must improve over the remainder of the season. The Orange (12-0) could certainly use it with a rough Big East schedule looming.

Forwards Rick Jackson and James Southerland led Syracuse with a game-high 18 points apiece. Jackson shot 9 of 16, while Southerland finished 7 of 10 off the bench.

Kevin Thompson led the Bears (4-5) with 15 points, while Justin Black finished with 14.