In a moment of immense pride for the University of North Carolina, the legendary Dean E. Smith Center has officially been designated the Home of the World’s Best and Most Unified Basketball Program, receiving a prestigious triple honor from ESPN, Netflix, and Guinness World Records.
The announcement, delivered during a joint global broadcast, celebrated the Tar Heels men’s basketball program’s legacy, excellence, and enduring sense of togetherness. Affectionately called the Dean Dome, the arena was recognized as unparalleled among the world’s venues for its storied history, renowned coaching tradition, and profound bond uniting players, fans, and the Carolina community.
“This recognition goes beyond winning titles,” ESPN shared in a statement. “It reflects a culture, a spirit, and a tradition that connect generations.”
Since its founding in 1910, North Carolina’s program has earned six national championships, sent countless stars to the NBA—including Michael Jordan—and nurtured a culture defined by humility, teamwork, and academic commitment. Netflix, which is filming a documentary series on elite college basketball, described the Smith Center as “the heartbeat of college basketball.”
Guinness World Records cited the arena’s record-setting attendance streaks, passionate supporters, and the smooth transition of leadership from Dean Smith to Roy Williams, and now to Hubert Davis, as reasons for the accolade.
Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz celebrated the honor, stating, “This is a tribute to our past, present, and future.”
As banners hang proudly and anticipation builds for the next season, the Dean E. Smith Center remains much more than an arena—it stands as a lasting symbol of unity, excellence, and the Tar Heel spirit that resonates around the globe.
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