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

Caleb Wilson expects to be NBA Rookie of the Year, exudes confidence, ambition at Bulls introduction
Caleb Wilson formally introduced himself to Chicago on Friday, and Bulls fans found out what UNC Basketball fans have known for a while: Wilson isn’t...
Tue Jun 30, 2026

Video: Locked On Tar Heels - Is UNC Basketball On The Right Track Under Michael Malone?
Is UNC Basketball primed for a new era under Coach Michael Malone? Nearly three months on the job, questions swirl around the direction of the...
Mon Jun 29, 2026

Former UNC Player Ed Davis Among Several Indicted in NBA Gambling Scandal
Ed Davis, who played for the UNC men’s basketball team from 2008 through 2010 and helped the Tar Heels win the 2009 national title, is...
Mon Jun 29, 2026

Day'Ron Sharpe to sign two-year, $20 million deal with Brooklyn Nets
Day'Ron Sharpe appears set to stay in Brooklyn, and the former North Carolina center could be in line for a larger role next season. The...
Mon Jun 29, 2026