I don't think there has been some grand conspiracy or anything.
Basically, people who are big fans of Boeheim spent 2017 through 2023 handwaving away the obvious decline of the program. It was a natural reaction to defend the guy that built a nationally relevant, title-winning program.
And JB gave them juuuust enough ammo for that defense... the 2018 and 2021 Sweet 16 runs. Plus, the sentiment that the legend gets to choose when he steps aside wasn't egregious in the abstract.
I will always contend that forcing Boeheim out in March of 2023 was predicated on installing Autry as head coach. There were a lot of folks -- boosters, former players, board members -- who would have been happy to let JB coach forever. I have zero doubt that JB would still be head coach as we speak if a few powers-that-be hadn't finally had enough two years ago this week. Red was the compromise. Boeheim leaves but we hire internally, the guy you all know and like.
It just hasn't worked out.