Syracuse Basketball renews its rivalry against former Big East foe Georgetown tomorrow in its first matchup since SU’s move to the ACC. But for the 1st time since 1974, fans will not see the iconic, scowling figure of Coach Jim Boeheim on the sideline against their biggest rival.
Boeheim’s 9 game suspension by the NCAA begins tomorrow, more than 9 months after Syracuse appealed the sanctions against the program. Syracuse’s faculty liaison to the NCAA, Rick Burton, says although the timing of the Georgetown game is a coincidence, he’s disappointed by the length of the appeals process.
“I don’t think they would have looked specifically at the Georgetown game. I think what’s really unfortunate is that [the NCAA] waited until the season began. I think everyone would agree that it would have been great if it was resolved back in October before the season started.”
Yesterday the NCAA reversed its previous ruling of a 9 game conference game ban, instead banning Boeheim for the next 9 games, effective immediately. The suspension ruling comes on the heels of an emotional week for Syracuse athletics. Scott Shafer served his final game as head football coach after being fired; a 20-17 win over Boston College. Burton says emotions could play a factor in SU’s first game without Boeheim, similar to Shafer’s final game.
“Sometimes athletes rise to the occasion, sometimes situations that are created by administrators create extra incentive for players.” “There was obviously what appeared to be a great deal of love for Coach Shafer from his players and I think that same kind of respect and love is there for Coach Boeheim and that the kids will really want to bring a victory back to him.”
Burton says despite the lack of notice on the suspension, he feels Boeheim and assistant coach Mike Hopkins have the players prepared for this moment.
“My sense is that the team is fully trained and prepared by [Boeheim]. This is his team as he’s said and Coach Hopkins has been there for so long, I don’t think our kids are going to feel a lot of difference. I think they’re going to be fine.”
Syracuse beat Georgetown 58-55 in overtime in their last matchup in 2013 in the Big East tournament. Tomorrow’s game is the 91st meeting between the two schools. Syracuse is 49-41 overall.