On This Date 25 Years Ago: Dean Smith Retires

Posted Oct 9, 2022
On October 9, 1997, legendary North Carolina men's basketball coach Dean Smith shocked the college basketball world, announcing his retirement after 36 seasons. Long-time assistant Bill Guthridge would take over as the program’s head coach. Even 25 years later, UNC Basketball still honors Smith's mantra: "Play Hard. Play Smart. Play Together." (Keeping It Heel)

Related: Basketball, Basketball Recruiting

Neoklis Avdalas' 6 Best Games and what they Might Mean
Virginia Tech 107, Providence 101 (OT) - In Uncasville, CT, Neoklis Avdalas put on a show in his second college game, finishing with 33 points,...
Sat Aug 1, 2026

Court Ruling Clears Path For UNC Basketball's Recruitment Of Micah Handlogten, Cameron Fens
UNC Basketball and coach Michael Malone wasted no time taking advantage of Friday's landmark court ruling, reaching out to two experienced big men who are...
Sat Aug 1, 2026

Video: Locked On Tar Heels - UNC Basketball Offseason Grades
UNC Basketball's offseason earns mixed grades as questions loom over the frontcourt, roster depth, and late coaching transitions. Can new head coach Michael Malone overcome...
Sat Aug 1, 2026

Video: Locked On Tar Heels - UNC Basketball Targeting 2027 Center Lewis Uvwo
Class of 2027 5-star center Lewis Uvwo has experienced a meteoric rise up the basketball recruiting rankings and possesses some real "Caleb Wilson energy." Isaac...
Fri Jul 31, 2026