In a game that started out as a potential blowout for Syracuse, the Orange managed to hold off a furious comeback by Notre Dame to secure an 88-85 victory. The win came on a day when the university paid tribute to their legendary basketball coach, Jim Boeheim, in a special on-court ceremony.

Syracuse (18-10, 9-8 ACC) seemed destined for an easy win as they led by as many as 29 points during the game. However, a dynamic duo of Markus Burton and Braeden Shrewsberry sparked a relentless second-half surge by Notre Dame, bringing the Irish within three points in the final minute.

With the crowd on edge, Syracuse's defense came up big, with Quadir Copeland contesting a difficult game-tying three-pointer by Shrewsberry as the clock winded down. The defensive stop secured the victory for the Orange, much to the relief of their zealous fans.

Five Syracuse players finished in double figures, with Judah Mintz leading the team with 21 points. The contribution from Mintz, along with the efforts of Bell, Copeland, Starling, and Brown, proved crucial in fending off Notre Dame's late rally.

The win against Notre Dame, who currently occupy a lower position in the ACC, maintained Syracuse's chances of improving their standing in the NCAA Tournament bubble. They have four games remaining in the regular season before the ACC tournament commences on March 12.

The game served as a fitting backdrop for the ceremony honoring Jim Boeheim, who has dedicated 47 seasons to the Orange. Boeheim became emotional during his speech, expressing gratitude to his family, former players, and coaching staff. He highlighted the impact of Dave Bing, whose arrival as a player changed the fortune of the program, and recognized the influence of his former assistants, particularly Troy Weaver's persuasive role in recruiting Carmelo Anthony.

Boeheim also reminisced about the early stages of his career, crediting his success to recruiting players like Louis Orr and Roosevelt Bouie and acknowledging the instrumental contribution of a little guard who made six crucial three-pointers in the first half of a national championship-winning game.

In his closing remarks, Boeheim expressed profound gratitude to the fans and the university. He thanked them for providing him with a life that exceeded his wildest dreams.

The emotional ceremony served as a reminder of Boeheim's immense impact on Syracuse basketball and the lives of countless players and coaching staff who have been a part of the program.

As the Orange celebrated their victory and paid tribute to their esteemed coach, the university and fans alike rejoiced in the incredible legacy and success that Boeheim has brought to the basketball program over the past five decades.