02/18/2020
The Finger Lakes Region is lucky enough to have Syracuse as one of it’s major metropolitan centers. Buddy Boeheim, a budding college basketball star who grew up in Syracuse, shares a little bit of his experiences.
LIFL: Has it been your dream to play for Syracuse Basketball?
Definitely. Growing up I didn’t think about anything but Syracuse basketball – going to games. It’s something that was always in the back of mind. I was the biggest fan. It’s definitely been a dream come true to play here.
How does it feel to play at a high level as the coach’s son?
It’s been great. I’ve learned so much from him and I’ve improved a great deal since I started at Syracuse.
Being a Syracuse native, how do you deal with the pressure to perform well in front of the home crowd?
I don’t really feel it. The biggest thing I focus on is just playing well and being the best I can. People may expect a little more because I’m the coach’s son – I just try to block it out and focus on winning.
Do you have any rituals that you must perform before a game and why?
I have to make my last 3-pointer before I finish up warmups. Other than that – nothing special.
What are some of your favorite outdoor activities in the Finger Lakes?
My dad and I go fishing a lot. I have a lot of great memories of fishing with him in the area. He’s really the first one that taught me how to fish. I’ve become a very avid fisherman and really enjoy doing that with him.
What are some things you do to de-stress while going to college?
Since I’m from here, I can go home and have dinner with my family. I like to hang out with my friends away from basketball as well.
You’ve had the chance to travel all over the world and see a lot of different places. What is it that you like about Central New York?
It’s a great area. I personally like the snow. Growing up I used to ski a good amount with my friends – that was until I broke my wrist! It’s a fun area. The summers and falls are great. There’s no other place I would have rather grown up.
What are your future plans after you graduate?
I haven’t thought about it too much, but hopefully continue to play basketball overseas or here for as long as I can. Then I might be interested in getting into coaching basketball.
