35 years ago: Dean Smith writes legendary recruiting letter to Michael Jordan

Posted Aug 12, 2015
Michael Jordan thrived under legendary coach Dean Smith’s tutelage, helping North Carolina win a national championship in 1982 and winning National College Player of the Year honors in 1984. As part of Smith’s recruitment of Jordan, he sent the young MJ a now-legendary letter following a visit with the basketball star. The note was sent to Jordan 35 years ago to this day. (NCAA.com)

Related: Basketball, Basketball Recruiting

How Caleb Wilson can reach even greater heights for UNC basketball, NBA future
Caleb Wilson is setting scoring records, ripping rebounds and taking flight with rim-rattling dunks as a star freshman for UNC basketball. Even with all of...
Thu Feb 5, 2026

UNC's Place in the ACC Basketball Race
Not exactly sure how many teams are going to get into the NCAA Tournament, probably eight, which is a good number, but maybe not many...
Thu Feb 5, 2026

With 'circus coming, Hubert Davis tries to keep Tar Heels focused ahead of clash with Duke
Hubert Davis has spent the week trying to keep UNC's preparation like any other game ahead of Saturday’s showdown with Duke, even when everyone around...
Thu Feb 5, 2026

Video: Hubert Davis Thursday Pre-Duke Press Conference
North Carolina head men's basketball coach Hubert Davis speaks with the media on Thursday ahead of the No. 14 Tar Heels' rivalry matchup against the...
Thu Feb 5, 2026