In this instance, it almost seems inadequate. “Sometimes the word legend is used with too little thought. My heart goes out to his family.” - former UNC player Antawn Jamison, who played on Smith’s final two teams. I wouldn’t be the man I am today if it wasn’t for Coach Smith. In fact, it feels like I’m losing a father. “He was more like a father to me than a coach. What he means to the people of North Carolina is immeasurable.” - former Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun. His work with desegregation and women’s rights showed what an equally incredible person he was. Dean’s influence, however, went far beyond basketball coaching. Dean was a father figure to many, many young coaches and taught a lot of us what it means to build a program, not just a team.
“Like the rest of the college basketball world, I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dean Smith, who was not only one of one of the greatest coaches of all-time, but a true innovator of the game. That was the great thing.” - UNC assistant coach Hubert Davis, who played for Smith from 1988-92. He would take time to spend time with us and get to know us. He always used to talk about that he couldn’t coach us unless he knew us. I’ll be able to sit down and tell my grandchildren I played for Dean Smith, which is really cool.” - former UNC point guard Phil Ford, who played for Smith from 1974-78. “I was very blessed and fortunate to have had him in my life.