Coach Boeheim Statement
Syracuse Coach Jim Boeheim
Press Conference Opening Statement
February 23, 2019
""Before we talk about tonight’s game, I want to address the tragic highway accident that occurred on Wednesday, February 20.
"First and foremost, to the Jimenez family: I want them to know how truly devastated I am for my involvement in the loss of their loved one, Jorge Jimenez. The grief and pain his family is feeling at this time is simply put: unimaginable.
"Juli, my family and I are heartbroken.
"I love this community. And to see so many of my fellow community members rally around the Jimenez family is a reminder of how special Central New York is.
"As Chancellor Syverud and Director of Athletics John Wildhack have said, our entire Syracuse University family extends our deepest condolences to everyone impacted by this loss.
"My decision to coach this game -- all I can say is that I felt a great responsibility, an obligation, to my players, the members of my basketball team. I recruited these young men to come and play at Syracuse University. They needed me to try do my job. And they understand I did this feeling fully the weight of the tragic accident and its impact on the Jimenez family. This is something that will be with me for the rest of my life.
"Out of respect for the Jimenez family, and all grieving at this time, I ask that your questions focus on tonight’s game."
Press Conference Opening Statement
February 23, 2019
""Before we talk about tonight’s game, I want to address the tragic highway accident that occurred on Wednesday, February 20.
"First and foremost, to the Jimenez family: I want them to know how truly devastated I am for my involvement in the loss of their loved one, Jorge Jimenez. The grief and pain his family is feeling at this time is simply put: unimaginable.
"Juli, my family and I are heartbroken.
"I love this community. And to see so many of my fellow community members rally around the Jimenez family is a reminder of how special Central New York is.
"As Chancellor Syverud and Director of Athletics John Wildhack have said, our entire Syracuse University family extends our deepest condolences to everyone impacted by this loss.
"My decision to coach this game -- all I can say is that I felt a great responsibility, an obligation, to my players, the members of my basketball team. I recruited these young men to come and play at Syracuse University. They needed me to try do my job. And they understand I did this feeling fully the weight of the tragic accident and its impact on the Jimenez family. This is something that will be with me for the rest of my life.
"Out of respect for the Jimenez family, and all grieving at this time, I ask that your questions focus on tonight’s game."