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: Coach's Corner with Bill Belichick - UNC vs. UConn Preview
Before UNC Football heads north this weekend, coach Bill Belichick joins Jones Angell to talk about the growth of the Tar Heels this year, quarterback...
Wed Nov 4, 2026

UNC OL Cristian Alvarez Quietly Putting Together Impressive Freshman Season
Cristian Alvarez, a 6-foot-4, 285-pound interior offensive lineman from St. Joseph Regional High School in Montvale, New Jersey, has played 351 offensive snaps through Carolina's...
Wed Nov 4, 2026

Wide Receiver Trech Kekahuna on Billy Edwards, UNC’s Offensive Progress
UNC wide receiver Trech Kekahuna met with reporters at the Kenan Football Center on Monday. Kekahuna, who caught his first TD as a Tar Heels...
Wed Nov 4, 2026

UNC vs. UConn Football Preview: Tar Heels Aim to Get Back on Track
UNC Football (4-4, 2-3 ACC standings) looks to shake its two-game losing streak with a trip Saturday to square off with UConn (4-4). The two...
Wed Nov 4, 2026