Randy Wiel receives gift from Dean Smith as former player Posted Apr 5, 2015 As one of 180 lettermen who played for legendary coach Dean Smith at North Carolina over 36 years, Randy Wiel received the letter and the check. It didn’t come directly from Smith, who died on Feb. 7, but rather the attorney representing his estate. Among the wishes of Smith in his will was that each of his players receive a $200 check for the stated purpose from their coach to “enjoy a dinner out compliments of Coach Dean Smith.” (The Daily News Journal)