Sad news out of North Carolina this morning as UNC released that legendary Hall of Fame coach Dean Smith has passed away at the age of 83.
From North Carolina's press release:
CHAPEL HILL - Former University of North Carolina head men's basketball coach Dean Smith died Saturday evening in Chapel Hill. He was 83 years old.
"Coach Dean Smith passed away peacefully the evening of February 7 at his home in Chapel Hill, and surrounded by his wife and five children," the Smith family said in a statement. "We are grateful for all the thoughts and prayers, and appreciate the continued respect for our privacy as arrangements are made available to the public. Thank you."
Smith was the head coach of the Tar Heels from 1961 to 1997, retiring as the winningest coach in college basketball. He led the Tar Heels to national championships in 1982 and 1993, to 13 ACC Tournament titles, 11 Final Fours, and an NIT championship, and directed the United States Olympic Team to a gold medal at the 1976 Summer Games.
Here was the reaction out of Chestnut Hill, where the Eagles just hosted the Tar Heels at Conte Forum on Saturday.
Thoughts and prayers are with the Smith family and the entire UNC basketball family. RIP Coach Smith. #ACC #Legend pic.twitter.com/YaIXNpDfVl
— Jim Christian (@BCJimChristian) February 8, 2015
The sports world lost a giant in #DeanSmith. Our thoughts and prayers are with @UNCBasketbaII & Coach Smith's family & friends.
— Brad Bates (@BCBradBates) February 8, 2015
Our thoughts are with the Smith family and the UNC community.