Jim Boeheim Apologizes For Questioning Bernie Fine’s Alleged Victims

Syracuse head coach Jim Boeheim backtracked a second time in less than a week from comments questioning the motives of Bernie Fine’s alleged molestation victims. Last Sunday, Boeheim released a statement, saying, “I deeply regret any statements I made that might have inhibited that from occurring or been insensitive to victims of abuse.” Following ‘Cuse’s win over Florida on Friday, Boeheim distanced himself even further from his initial comments.

“I believe I misspoke very badly in my response to the allegations that have been made,” said Boeheim, who spoke slowly and paused frequently during a postgame press conference Friday. “I shouldn’t have questioned what the accusers expressed or their motives. I am really sorry that I did that, and I regret any harm that I caused.”

When allegations surfaced in November, Boeheim vehemently accused Fine’s alleged victims of lying. On Friday, Boeheim pledged to help raise awareness of child abuse, saying that he “acted without thinking” out of loyalty to his former assistant coach.

“I’m going to do everything I can to do that,” he said, no matter whether he’s coaching or not. “I’ve always been committed to kids. There’s no question in my mind the issue of abuse is the No. 1 thing we should all be concerned about in this community.”

Three men have come forward so far alleging abuse, with a fourth victim perhaps about to open up. Fine coached under Boeheim at Syracuse for 35 years before being fired last month.

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