ESPN Classic to honor Dean Smith with more than 24-hour tribute Posted Feb 11, 2015 ESPN Classic will air more than 24 hours of programming to honor legendary North Carolina basketball coach Dean Smith starting on Wednesday at 7 p.m. ET. Smith passed away on Saturday night at the age of 83. ESPN Classic will air a special called "Remembering Dean Smith" to start the tribute. The special will be followed by classic games coached by Smith. (Sports Illustrated)