Kenny Smith Weighs In on UNC's Coaching Search

0:00On March 27th, UNC fired men's basketball coach Hubert Davis after five seasons, sparking a nationwide search for a replacement. Kenny Smith, a former Tar Heel star and current TV analyst, broke his silence during a recent NCAA tournament game. The New York native, whose jersey hangs in the Raptors at the Smith Center, stressed that the new hire needs to commit long-term to the program, Smith first thanked Davis for advancing North Carolina basketball, both as a player and coach. He pointed out the tough spot the school now faces with key staff departures. Assistance like Brad Frederick and Sean May, along with support staff who served for years, represent deep program routes. That family connection across basketball errors is what sets Carolina apart, Smith explained. Losing it could shake the program's unique identity and rival respect. Earlier legends like Dean Smith and Roy Williams stayed into retirement, building that legacy. Fans floating in the coaching search include Arizona's Tommy Lloyd, Michigan's Dusty May,

1:01Iowa State's TJ Ozzelberger, and even Chicago Bullscoach, Billy Donovan. Smith brushed off suggestions he'd take the job himself, calling it disrespectful, given his lack of coaching experience. With family ties like Kenny Sons, who played or committed to UNC, the change hits close to home. The Tar Heels now hunt for someone to restore stability and honor that story tradition.