In a move that embodies loyalty, excellence, and the enduring spirit of college basketball, the University of North Carolina has officially announced plans to erect a statue of legendary coach Roy Williams on campus. The bronze monument will stand proudly outside the Dean E. Smith Center, the very arena where Williams built his Hall of Fame career and led generations of Tar Heels to greatness.
The decision to immortalize Roy Williams in statue form has been met with overwhelming approval from players, alumni, and fans alike. University officials describe the project as “a timeless symbol of gratitude to a man who not only brought championships but also upheld the values that define Carolina basketball.”
During his 18-year tenure at UNC, Williams guided the Tar Heels to three NCAA national championships (2005, 2009, 2017), over 480 wins, and countless unforgettable moments that shaped the identity of the program. His commitment to his players — both on and off the court — earned him admiration that extended far beyond Chapel Hill.
“Coach Williams wasn’t just about winning,” said Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham. “He was about doing things the right way — loyalty, humility, and heart. This statue is more than a tribute to his victories. It’s a tribute to his character.”
The project is being spearheaded by a group of donors and former players, many of whom credit Williams for the discipline, integrity, and perseverance that guided their professional and personal lives. The unveiling ceremony is expected to draw thousands of fans, former Tar Heel stars, and coaching peers from across the nation.
Architectural renderings suggest that the life-sized bronze statue will depict Williams in his trademark sideline stance — clipboard in one hand, eyes fixed on the court — a visual encapsulation of his intensity and dedication. The base will be inscribed with one of his famous quotes: “It’s not about me, it’s about us.”
For many, the statue represents more than just nostalgia. It marks a moment in UNC history where tradition meets tribute — a chance for future generations to understand the legacy of a man who carried on the Carolina Way with grace and pride.
Former UNC guard Marcus Paige reflected on the news, saying, “When I see that statue, I’ll remember not just the wins, but the lessons. Coach Williams made us better players, but more importantly, better people.”
Williams, now 75, retired from coaching in 2021 but remains a beloved presence in Chapel Hill. He continues to attend games, mentor young coaches, and serve as an ambassador for the university he’s called home for decades.
As construction begins, the anticipation grows for a monument that will forever connect past, present, and future generations of Tar Heels. The statue is expected to be unveiled in the spring of next year — a fitting tribute to a man whose loyalty and legacy have become inseparable from the fabric of UNC basketball.
When the bronze figure is finally revealed, it will stand not just as a work of art, but as a reminder — that greatness isn’t defined solely by championships, but by the values and people who make them possible.
