Born & Bred: Tar Heel Nickname Origins

Posted Jun 6, 2023
A New York sportswriter had seen Kenny Smith play a high school game and wrote that he raced up the court "like a jet." Walter Davis said that "my teammates at North Carolina started Sweet D." Tyler Hansbrough explained that "to get through a workout and motivate myself, I was screaming at myself. That’s when Jonas started calling me 'Psycho T.'" (Rams Club)

Related: Basketball, Basketball Recruiting

Video: UNC's Michael Malone, ACC Tip Off Take Center Stage
The ACC Tip Off offers a chance to hear from coaches and players across the league. UNC's Michael Malone will be a focal point as...
Wed Oct 7, 2026

Matt Able Aims To Be More Than A Shooter In UNC Basketball Lineup
After Matt Able committed to the Tar Heels on April 21 while continuing to test the NBA Draft waters, his stock only rose. In workouts...
Tue Oct 6, 2026

Video: Locked On Tar Heels - Can Terrence Brown Elevate His Game?
Can Terrence Brown transform into the complete modern lead guard UNC Basketball needs? Isaac Schade breaks down how Michael Malone’s demands for defense, playmaking, and...
Tue Oct 6, 2026

Video: Locked On Tar Heels - Matt Able's Playmaking and Shooting Potential
With Matt Able poised for an expanded role with UNC Basketball, Isaac Schade explores how his underutilized skills could redefine the Tar Heels’ backcourt alongside...
Tue Oct 6, 2026