Why Julius Peppers gave up ‘first love’ for Hall of Fame football career

Posted Feb 15, 2024
There was a time Julius Peppers favored dunks over sacks. But the Panthers legend had the self-awareness, even in his early 20s, to know a basketball career wasn’t worth stunting the potential of an extraordinary football journey. The former two-sport athlete at the University of the North Carolina chose wisely. "Basketball was my first love," Peppers said. (MSN.com)

Related: Football, Football Recruiting

Video: IC Podcast - UNC Tight End Breakdown and Superlatives
UNC's tight end group was sorely misused last season, but under new offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino, this year's group of Jelani Thurman, Jordan Washington, Shamar...
Wed Jul 8, 2026

Barth Brothers Hosting Free Kicking Camp July 16 In Wilmington
Brothers Casey Barth and Connor Barth, two of the greatest placekickers ever produced by the state of North Carolina, will host their annual, all-ages kicking...
Tue Jul 7, 2026

2026 ACC college football preview, predictions, top transfers and more
Bill Belichick bears the burden of proof, but it's not hard to see potential if UNC's defense is a top-40 unit and Bobby Petrino engineers...
Tue Jul 7, 2026

Back with the Washington Commanders, Dyami Brown vows it’s a 'new me'
Former North Carolina receiver Dyami Brown, after a season in Jacksonville, has returned to Washington for a second stint. Brown is projected to be a...
Tue Jul 7, 2026