From Rivals to NCAA Legends: The Night James Worthy and Sleepy Floyd Reunited on College Basketball’s Biggest Stage
In the spring of 1982, the New Orleans Superdome played host to one of the most iconic moments in college basketball history — a championship clash that would forever link two sons of Gastonia, North Carolina: James Worthy and Eric “Sleepy” Floyd. Though teammates in spirit due to their shared hometown roots, that night they stood on opposite sides of the court, representing powerhouse programs North Carolina and Georgetown in the NCAA Championship game.
Both men grew up in the working-class city of Gastonia, developing their games on the same local courts, albeit with different paths and playing styles. James Worthy, a 6-foot-9 forward with unmatched agility and finishing ability, was already a high school sensation before committing to Dean Smith’s University of North Carolina squad. His rise was meteoric — a natural blend of size, speed, and court vision that made him one of the most feared players in the nation.
Eric “Sleepy” Floyd, on the other hand, was a scoring guard known for his smooth shot and calm demeanor. The nickname “Sleepy” came not from his performance, but from his droopy eyes — a misleading trait for a player who brought relentless energy to the court. After being overlooked by several major programs, Floyd found his place at Georgetown under the legendary coach John Thompson. There, he flourished, becoming the Hoyas’ all-time leading scorer and the heart of a gritty, defense-first team.
The 1982 NCAA Championship game was more than just a battle between two elite programs. It was a poetic reunion of childhood rivals — now matured, sharpened, and poised for greatness. For Worthy, it was a chance to cement his legacy. For Floyd, it was the opportunity to lift an underdog Georgetown team to national glory.
From the opening tip, the game was a back-and-forth thriller. Sleepy Floyd showcased his scoring prowess early, hitting clutch shots and controlling the pace of the game. Worthy responded in kind, slashing to the basket and dominating inside with his signature finesse. The matchup was electric, with both players putting on a show for the ages.
But in the final moments, it was Worthy who sealed the victory for North Carolina. With the Tar Heels leading by one point and the clock winding down, freshman Michael Jordan hit the go-ahead jumper — a shot that would foreshadow his future greatness. Yet, it was Worthy’s interception of a desperate final pass from Floyd that truly ended the game, securing the 63-62 win and giving Dean Smith his first national title.
Though Floyd walked off the court in defeat, his performance only elevated his legend. Both players would go on to have storied careers in the NBA — Worthy winning three championships with the Lakers and earning Finals MVP honors, and Floyd setting playoff scoring records with the Warriors and Rockets.
The 1982 NCAA Championship was more than a game; it was a defining moment that encapsulated the journey of two kids from Gastonia who rose to national prominence, crossing paths one final time before etching their names in basketball history.
