What Happened: Could Anyone Have Predicted Al Wood’s Outburst in 1981 Final Four?

Posted Jun 20, 2024
One of North Carolina’s most contentious set of rivalry basketball games took place in 1981 against Virginia, who beat the Tar Heels twice only to lose a rematch in the national semifinals. That game was decided by a three-minute burst by UNC's Al Wood, one of the most famous single-game performances in Carolina history, especially given the setting. (Inside Carolina)

Related: Basketball, Basketball Recruiting

North Carolina vs. Western Carolina Postgame Quotes
Michael Malone on his first official win with UNC Basketball: "I'm thankful to get that first one. And the fans here have been so kind...
Tue Nov 3, 2026

Video: Carolina Insider - UNC vs. Western Carolina Postgame Reactions
Join Jones Angell and Adam Lucas for Carolina Insider Rapid Reactions as they break down the Tar Heels' 80-72 season-opening victory over the Western Carolina...
Tue Nov 3, 2026

Michael Malone's First UNC Victory Comes With Special Moment From Roy Williams
Michael Malone picked up his first win at UNC, but it wasn't pretty. As a heavy favorite against Western Carolina, the Tar Heels clung to...
Tue Nov 3, 2026

Video: IC Podcast - UNC Basketball Scrapes Past Western Carolina
Michael Malone's first regular-season game as UNC Basketball coach played out in similar fashion as the three exhibition games - some good, some bad, and...
Tue Nov 3, 2026