If you’ve ever been involved in a surprise party, you know it’s nearly impossible to pull off. That’s why ESPN broadcaster Sean McDonough and NBA analyst P.J. Carlesimo, who coached at Wagner College from 1976 to 1982, were enlisted to help execute a surprise tribute dinner for Syracuse University basketball legend Jim Boeheim that included a list of 500 guests, according to Mike Waters of syracuse.com.
McDonough and Carlesimo, both members of Boeheim’s first coaching staff at Syracuse in 1976, did their best to make their run-in with Boeheim at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, New York believable.
The plan was for them to bump into Boeheim, who would be there rubbing elbows with donors. After 47 years as Syracuse’s men’s basketball coach, Boeheim was named Special Assistant to the Athletic Director in March. One of his main duties is to raise funds for the university.
McDonough and Carlesimo’s explanation for the “chance” encounter: They were there to luxuriate in Oak Hill’s magnificent course.
Upon meeting with Boeheim, McDonough felt that the surprise had been ruined. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
According to Waters:
When Boeheim walked into the tent set up outside Oak Hill’s club, he saw a room filled with 500 guests. They rose to give Boeheim a standing ovation.
“He was completely surprised,’’ McDonough said. “He had tears in his eyes.’’
Boeheim is largely considered one of the greatest college basketball coaches ever. Among his accomplishments are 10 Big East regular season championships, five Big East tournament championships, and 34 NCAA tournament appearances. Of his five Final Four appearances, Boeheim led Syracuse to one title, defeating Kansas in 2003 with Knicks legend Carmelo Anthony.
Manuel Gomez may be reached at [email protected].
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