SYRACUSE, N.Y. (AP) — Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim says he will appeal "unduly harsh" NCAA sanctions for violations that occurred over a decade and that 3 years is the "right time" to retire.

Boeheim said Thursday before the start of the main games in the NCAA Tournament that some of the NCAA's allegations are inaccurate.

NCAA punished Boeheim and Syracuse earlier this month for academic, benefits and other violations that officials said showed the university had lost control of the athletic department.

Boeheim became the face of Syracuse over five decades, first as player, then as coach — revered for wins and delivering a national title to a struggling city in 2003. But the coda to his decorated career has been blemished by the violations.

More From 600 ESPN El Paso