UNC taps into its hoops history by offering the son of a legendary Tar Heel

The Carolina family runs deep, as the latest offer was extended to the son of a well-known former Tar Heel.
Jan 21, 2026; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Hubert Davis reacts in the second half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Jan 21, 2026; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Hubert Davis reacts in the second half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

The name Kenny "The Jet" Smith is one that Tar Heel fans know quite well.

If you look into the rafters of the Dean Smith Center, you'll see Smith's No. 30 jersey hanging proudly among the other UNC greats who have earned the honor. Smith was a four-year standout for Dean Smith's Tar Heels, Smith earned 1987 Consensus First-Team All-America and Basketball Times National Player of the Year honors. He was a first-team All-ACC selection in 1987, a two-time second-team All-ACC member (1985-1986), and led the team in scoring and assists in 1987.

Now, we all are familiar with his resume, but did you know that his son, Malloy, is a baller in his own right?

Well, Hubert Davis and the Tar Heels coaching staff are well-aware.

UNC extends an offer to Malloy Smith

As announced on his social media accounts, Malloy Smith revealed that he received an offer from North Carolina. The 6-foot-6 combo guard is a member of the 2026 recruiting class.

Currently playing for Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California, Smith holds offers from California, Cal State Northridge, North Carolina, and Portland State.

It runs in the family... literally

Not only did Kenny "The Jet" Smith play at North Carolina, but now both of his sons have earned offers to follow his path to Chapel Hill.

We all remember Malloy's older brother, KJ, who played for UNC from 2016 through 2021. He appeared in 75 games over his time at North Carolina, making seven starts.

While Malloy isn't ranked among the 2026 recruiting class, he could be one of those sneaky additions to help add depth to UNC's front court. He could follow in his brother's footsteps, a path that led both to be undervalued on the recruiting market but ended up working out nicely for the Tar Heels in the long run.

Now, Malloy joins the club of family members who have been offered by North Carolina. The question remains: will Malloy follow suit, accepting the offer to continue the family legacy in Chapel Hill?

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