UNC Basketball: All-time “what if” Roy Williams team

J.R. Smith

Just imagining J.R. Smith with that 2005 national championship team is so much fun. Many people say, “There is no way they would have won with Smith and Rashad McCants.”

Who cares? That is not the point of the list!

Smith would be the perfect sixth man for the Tar Heels. His incredible ability to stroke the ball from deep, plus his solid defense would have been great for Coach Williams.

Believe it or not, Smith was actually committed to UNC at one time. Smith received a scholarship offer from former head coach Matt Doherty, and accepted it shortly thereafter.

Shortly after being hired, Roy Williams pulled his offer to Smith due to his lack of scouting on Smith. Once Williams got settled in at UNC, he immediately went out to visit with Smith.

Smith had a great summer, and his stock went through the roof, elevating his draft status to the first round. Smith, back when it was allowed, then entered his name into the NBA Draft as a high schooler.

He was then selected 18th in the draft by the New Orleans Hornets.

While Smith’s NBA numbers have never been great, his game would have been fun to watch in Carolina’s offense.

Smith was also once known for his high-flying ability, and with Raymond Felton passing to him, “Lob City” may have made an appearance in Chapel Hill.