North Carolina is a powerhouse in NCAA men’s basketball, with a storied history that has made it one of the most successful and prestigious programs in college sports. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), often referred to as UNC or North Carolina, is the institution behind the program. Located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, the university’s basketball team plays at the Dean E. Smith Center, an iconic venue named after the legendary coach Dean Smith, who led the team to numerous successes.
Championships and Success
The University of North Carolina has won six NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championships: 1957, 1982, 1993, 2005, 2009, and 2017. These championships place them among the elite programs in college basketball history, tied with the likes of Duke, Indiana, and UConn in terms of success.
The 1957 title remains especially memorable, as it was won in a thrilling triple-overtime victory over Kansas. The team was coached by Frank McGuire, and it marked the first of many championship triumphs in the program’s history.
The 1982 national title under Coach Dean Smith is another landmark moment, as it was the year Michael Jordan, then a freshman, hit the game-winning shot in the championship game against Georgetown. This win also marked the beginning of a dominant era for the Tar Heels.
In 1993, under Smith’s guidance, the Tar Heels won again, defeating the University of Michigan’s “Fab Five” in the final. North Carolina’s success continued under Coach Roy Williams, who took over the program in 2003. Williams led the team to national championships in 2005, 2009, and 2017. The 2009 title is particularly significant, as the team dominated the tournament, led by players like Tyler Hansbrough and Ty Lawson.
The 2017 championship, secured in a thrilling game against Gonzaga, was Roy Williams’ third, solidifying his place as one of the program’s greats. With 6 NCAA titles, North Carolina is consistently ranked among the most successful programs in NCAA history.
Location of Play
The Tar Heels play their home games at the Dean E. Smith Center, often referred to as the “Dean Dome.” Opened in 1986, the arena is one of the largest and most recognizable basketball venues in the country, with a seating capacity of approximately 21,750. It’s known for its raucous, loyal fanbase and its historical significance, being home to some of the most iconic moments in college basketball history.
Notable Alumni
North Carolina’s basketball program has produced a long list of NBA stars, including Michael Jordan, one of the greatest players of all time. Other notable alumni include James Worthy, Vince Carter, Chris Paul, and Rasheed Wallace, all of whom enjoyed successful careers in the NBA.
Legacy
The University of North Carolina’s basketball program has established a legacy of excellence, not just in terms of championships but in the development of players and coaches who have made an indelible impact on the game. From Dean Smith’s innovative coaching style to the enduring greatness of Michael Jordan, the Tar Heels have shaped the culture and history of NCAA basketball. Their rivalry with Duke University, especially, is one of the fiercest and most celebrated in college sports, further cementing North Carolina’s place at the forefront of college basketball.
Below the video are available Tar Heel tickets and upcoming schedule.
Basketball Game Tickets and Schedule