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A new mural honoring legendary Syracuse University men's basketball coach Jim Boeheim was unveiled in Armory Square, Syracuse, on Saturday (October 18). The three-story painting, created by artist Chris Murray, celebrates Boeheim's remarkable career, which spanned from 1976 to 2023, and includes Syracuse's only national championship win in 2003.
Boeheim, who retired in 2023 with over 1,100 career victories, attended the dedication ceremony. The mural, located at 215 West Fayette Street, features Boeheim with his arms raised in triumph, capturing iconic moments from his coaching years. Murray, a native of Potsdam, New York, and a lifelong Syracuse basketball fan, expressed his excitement about the project, saying, "This is a full circle moment. Everything I’ve done over the last 15, 20, 25 years all circles back to painting this mural."
According to Syracuse.com, the mural was initially designed to include several former Syracuse players but was later focused solely on Boeheim due to permission challenges. The mural covers about 800 square feet and was funded by local donors and a GoFundMe campaign to cover expenses like painting supplies and travel.
Murray, who is now based in Philadelphia, has been working on the mural since September. He shared with the Daily Orange that his passion for both art and Syracuse basketball has been a constant in his life. The mural serves as a tribute to Boeheim's legacy and aims to be a destination spot for fans and the community.