'The Jet" has landed in Chapel Hill.
It's always a good day in North Carolina when Kenny Smith stops by his old stomping grounds. Smith, who played for the Tar Heels from 1983-1987, returned to the facility to address this year's roster as they begin the start of preparing for the upcoming season.
Smith's visit was documented by the program's social media account with some great photos on Instagram.
There was a time, right after Roy Williams retired, that some fans batted around the idea of Smith as the program's next head coach. That was unlikely to happen, as Smith, at the time, seemed very happy to be part of the "Inside the NBA" team that had a great run on Turner Sports, where he was NEVER afraid to represent UNC.
North Carolina alum Kenny the Jet Smith can’t even stand to write Duke on his bracket, scratches it out, and writes “Durham” instead. 😂😂😂
— Amanda Godsey (@AmandaFGodsey) March 20, 2025
Then picks UNC to win it all! pic.twitter.com/urEqSYGLCP
It's good to see Smith returning to the gym to talk to the roster and pass down some of his knowledge and his time as a Tar Heel. It's hard to believe it's been nearly 40 years since Smith wore the Carolina blue, but time waits for no one.
Smith's run at UNC included two Elite Eight appearances and the ACC regular season conference championship in 1984 and 1987. He was named a consensus All-American in 1987 and was drafted sixth overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 1987 Draft. Smith would play for the Kings, Hawks, Rockets, Pistons, Magic and Nuggets in an NBA career that lasted 11 seasons. He won two NBA titles with the Rockets in 1994 and 1995.
The Queens, New York native often speaks fondly of his time at UNC, where he honed his craft under legendary coach Dean Smith. And the Tar Heel faithful are always eager to return the love.