Syracuse's Jim Boeheim 'disappointed' with NCAA's decision
Syracuse head coach Jim Boeheim issued a statement on Thursday regarding the NCAA's decision to uphold his nine-game suspension.
"Needless to say, I am extremely disappointed with the NCAA Infractions Appeals Committee's decision, and in particular, the NCAA Infractions Appeals Committee giving us only two days to make this transition, when the appeal was argued weeks ago. However, I have full faith in the ability of Coach Hopkins, my staff, and our seniors to lead the Men's Basketball Program through this difficult time, and I look forward to returning to the bench on January 9 against the University of North Carolina.
During Boeheim's ban, he can not interact with any players or coaches associated with the program.
The NCAA Infractions Appeals Committee not only upheld the nine-game penalty, but also changed when the suspension would start. When the original ruling was handed down in March, Boeheim was expected to miss the first nine games of ACC play. On Thursday, the NCAA announced his suspension would begin immediately, meaning Boeheim will miss Syracuse's game at Georgetown on Saturday afternoon. His will miss three conference games.
The reason for the change is stems from Larry Brown's nine-game suspension. The SMU coach was suspended for the start of the season, missing zero conference games.
Syracuse associate head coach Mike Hopkins will replace Boeheim until Jan. 9 when the Orange host North Carolina.
