Breaking: Former UNC Basketball Head Coach Roy Williams Set to Begin New Era at UNC………..
In a surprising and monumental move, the University of North Carolina (UNC) announced today that legendary former men’s basketball head coach Roy Williams will return to the university in a new role, marking the beginning of a fresh chapter in the program’s storied legacy.
Williams, who retired from coaching in 2021 after 18 seasons at the helm of the Tar Heels, is set to become the Executive Director of Basketball Operations and Culture, a newly created position that will oversee program development, alumni engagement, and institutional culture across both men’s and women’s basketball programs. The university made the announcement early Friday morning via a press release and a live-streamed media conference attended by athletic director Bubba Cunningham and UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz.
“This is not about going back. It’s about building forward,” Williams said in his opening remarks. “I love this university, and I believe this is a chance to help shape its future off the court as much as I tried to do on it.”
Williams, 74, coached the Tar Heels from 2003 to 2021, leading them to three national championships (2005, 2009, and 2017) and amassing a record of 485–163 at UNC. Known for his up-tempo style, deep connection with players, and unwavering loyalty to the Carolina Way, Williams became one of the most beloved figures in college basketball. Following his retirement, he remained close to the program, occasionally attending practices and games, but had largely stayed out of the spotlight—until now.
According to Cunningham, the idea to bring Williams back in an official capacity had been in discussion for over a year.
“We wanted someone who knows this program inside and out,” Cunningham said. “Roy represents not just winning, but doing things the right way. His presence will strengthen our foundation and help us support our student-athletes in new, meaningful ways.”
In his new role, Williams will not be involved in coaching or recruiting but will serve as a mentor to current coaches and players, assist in strategic planning, and help foster relationships with alumni and donors. He is also expected to work closely with NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) initiatives, ensuring student-athletes receive holistic support as they navigate the evolving landscape of college sports.
UNC men’s head coach Hubert Davis, who succeeded Williams in 2021, expressed his excitement about the move: “Having Coach Williams back in this capacity means the world to me and to our players. His wisdom and passion are unmatched. It’s like having Dean Smith in your corner.”
Reactions across the basketball world have been overwhelmingly positive, with former players and rival coaches alike praising the decision. “Coach Williams was always more than Xs and Os,” said NBA star and former Tar Heel Harrison Barnes. “He’s about heart, and Carolina just got a lot more of it back.”
Roy Williams’ return to UNC signals not just a homecoming, but a reimagining of leadership—one rooted in tradition, yet focused on the future.
