Honoring the Legacy of Pearl Washington

Legendary Orange basketball star Pearl Washington is remembered for his dynamic ball-handling and passing skills, his ability to create on offense and, of course, the half-court shot he made to win the game against Boston College in 1984.

Syracuse University will honor Pearl this weekend with a 'Celebration of Pearl Washington' event on Friday, December 16, an endowed scholarship fund, and a 'Pearl Washington Day' at the Syracuse men's basketball game against long-time rival Georgetown on Saturday, December 17.

The Pearl Washington Endowed Fund for Continuing Education will support student-athletes who left the University and are returning to pursue their degrees. The inspiration for this fund comes from Washington's own experience, when he left Syracuse after his junior year to play in the NBA and came back later to continue his education, thanks to financial support from the provost and director of athletics.

Proceeds from the Celebration of Pearl Washington event, the sale of 'Pearl' shirts (click here to purchase) and the 31-day campaign will support the Endowed Fund. Syracuse alumni, friends, and fans are rallying to support Washington's legacy. Those who make a gift of $31 or more by December 17 will receive a commemorative window cling. Visit the Honoring Pearl Washington website to make a gift of $31 or more. Results of the effort will be announced during Washington's tribute ceremony at the Georgetown game.

All fans who attend 'Pearl Washington Day' at the Carrier Dome will receive a "31" jersey commemorative pin and a Pearl magnet, courtesy of Kinney Drugs. A special halftime presentation focusing on RememberingPearl will evoke smiles from fans of all ages and throughout the game RememberingPearl moments will be shared. Fans are invited to 'Be Like Pearl' by making a donation to take a half-court shot for a chance to win a Peal long sleeve T-Shirt (a court will be set up in the backcourt area of the Dome). Proceeds will benefit local pediatric cancer research.

Fans interested in seeing the continuation of the rivalry with the Hoyas in person can do so for as little as $31 a ticket. Syracuse and Georgetown are taking to the Dome hardwood at noon on Saturday, Dec. 17. Tickets are available online , by phone (888-DOME-TIX), or at the Dome Box Office.

In addition, Kinney Drugs teamed up with Syracuse Athletics to honor Pearl by hosting an in-store, six-week long program in Pearl's honor. Starting Monday, December 12 and continuing through January 30, 2017, Kinney's 77 stores across New York State will offer consumers an opportunity to purchase Pearl Washington 'mini-jerseys' for $1. Kinney customers can sign their name or write a short tribute to Pearl on each jersey, which will be proudly displayed inside each Kinney Drugs location. All proceeds will be donated to pediatric cancer research through the Jim & Juli Boeheim Foundation.

Stay connected to Cuse.com this week for more exciting "Pearl" news leading up to the Georgetown game.

Syracuse University Athletics

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