UNC Basketball rivals react to Roy Williams’ retirement
By Zack Pearson
It was news that shocked the UNC Basketball program as well as the game of college basketball on Thursday, as head coach Roy Williams announced his retirement from the game after 33 years.
The head coach spent 18 seasons at North Carolina following a 15-year run at Kansas. He took over the UNC program at an important time, with the program struggling under Matt Doherty and quickly turned it back into what it’s known for as a Blue Blood program. Williams won three national championships and made five Final Fours during his time at UNC, ending his career with over 900 wins.
Williams was also able to participate in the greatest rivalry in college sports too with Duke and North Carolina, enjoying several moments over the years.
While the news shocked UNC fans, the program’s hated rival Duke was also shocked as some Blue Devils chimed in on the retirement with words:
Roy Williams has been one of the great coaches in American Sports. pic.twitter.com/z6WDxpZbmD
— Jay Bilas (@JayBilas) April 1, 2021
Coach K on “one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history”Roy Williams’ retirement, per a release from the team: pic.twitter.com/gItdQCEZFo
— Duke Basketball (@dukebasketball) April 1, 2021
My Duke people WILL NOT like this but I grew up a @UNC_Basketball fan.. sad to see a legend retire in Roy Williams. Roy has always been a class act & is one of the greats. Big decision time for a program in which I admire & always respected in our rivalry.
— Jay Williams (@RealJayWilliams) April 1, 2021
Salute to UNC Head Coach Roy Williams on a legendary 48-year career. All respect. Thank you for all you have done for the game, our league and the greatest rivalry in sports. 🤝
— Duke Men’s Basketball (@DukeMBB) April 1, 2021
Those are some kind words from rivals that respect what Roy has done not only for the Tar Heels’ program but for college basketball in general. His impact on the game will certainly last forever and it will be odd not seeing him on the sidelines next season.
The Duke and UNC rivalry will go on again next season and it’s impossible to tell what direction it will lean. But it is nice knowing that Roy did go out after a regular-season sweep against the Blue Devils and kissing the court in a regular-season finale win.
Next. Head coaches to replace Roy Williams. dark
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