UNC Basketball Standout from Dean Smith’s First Two Final Four Teams Dies at Age 79

The University of North Carolina is mourning the loss of a true Tar Heel legend. Larry Miller, one of the most iconic figures in UNC basketball history and a cornerstone of Dean Smith’s early success, passed away Sunday at the age of 79.

Miller, a native of Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, was the face of Carolina basketball during a pivotal stretch in the program’s rise to national prominence. He starred for the Tar Heels from 1965 to 1968, leading North Carolina to back-to-back ACC championships and Final Four appearances in 1967 and 1968—the first two of Dean Smith’s Hall of Fame coaching career.

A two-time ACC Player of the Year, Miller remains the only Tar Heel in program history to win the award more than once. He was also named ACC Tournament MVP in both 1967 and 1968, joining an elite group of players to win both honors in consecutive seasons.

Miller’s dominance extended beyond the conference level. He was a consensus First-Team All-American in both 1967 and 1968, earning national recognition during one of the most competitive eras in college basketball. In 1968, he shared All-America honors with the likes of Lew Alcindor (later Kareem Abdul-Jabbar), Pete Maravich, Elvin Hayes, and Wes Unseld—a group often referred to as the greatest All-America team ever assembled.

In just three varsity seasons (freshmen were ineligible at the time), Miller scored 1,982 points, averaging 21.8 points per game—a mark that still ranks fifth in Tar Heel history. He also holds the program record for most consecutive games in double figures, scoring 10 or more points in 64 straight contests.

With Miller leading the charge, the Tar Heels posted a 70-21 overall record and went 32-10 in ACC play over his three years on campus. His blend of toughness, scoring ability, and leadership made him a fan favorite and an early symbol of Dean Smith’s emerging dynasty.

While Miller’s professional basketball career didn’t reach the same heights as his college days—he played in the ABA with teams like the Carolina Cougars and the New York Nets—his impact on UNC basketball was profound and lasting.

His No. 44 jersey hangs in the rafters of the Dean E. Smith Center, an enduring tribute to a player who helped build the foundation of Carolina’s storied basketball tradition.

Miller’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from former teammates, fans, and the UNC community. The university issued a statement honoring his contributions, and messages of remembrance continue to pour in across social media.

As the Tar Heel family reflects on his legacy, one thing is certain—Larry Miller will always be remembered as one of the greatest to ever wear Carolina Blue.

The Carolina community extends its deepest condolences to Miller’s family and loved ones during this time.

The UNC basketball team wins an in-conference transfer.

UNC Basketball Adds Experienced Guard from Virginia Tech

The UNC basketball staff has secured a commitment from a guard who made a notable leap in his sophomore season at Virginia Tech.

As of Friday, Jaydon Young is officially a Tar Heel. The 6-foot-4, 205-pound Goldsboro, N.C., native brings valuable ACC experience with him to Chapel Hill.

Coming out of Greensboro Day School in 2023 as a three-star recruit, Young saw limited action as a freshman, averaging just 1.8 points in 8.5 minutes over 26 games off the Hokies’ bench. However, he broke through during his second year, becoming a key contributor. Young played in all 32 games last season, earning 10 starts, and averaged 8.1 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game — although he struggled with efficiency, shooting 34.7 percent from the field and 29.6 percent from three-point range. Virginia Tech finished the season with a 13-19 record.

In the current transfer portal rankings from 247Sports, the 20-year-old Young sits at No. 354 overall and No. 84 among shooting guards.

With Young’s commitment, UNC’s transfer class for 2025 — now five players deep — is ranked No. 16 nationally and No. 2 in the ACC, trailing only Louisville’s group.

New UNC Basketball Pro Drake Powell Sends Heartfelt Message to Tar Heel Nation After Declaring for NBA Draft

New UNC Basketball Pro Drake Powell Sends Heartfelt Message to Tar Heel Nation After Declaring for NBA Draft

Another Tar Heel is chasing his dreams.

Following a solid freshman season in Chapel Hill, Drake Powell officially announced on Wednesday that he will forego his remaining college eligibility and declare for the 2025 NBA Draft. The 6-foot-6, 195-pound forward from Pittsboro, N.C., leaves the UNC basketball program after averaging 7.4 points and 3.4 rebounds per game, starting in more than half of the Tar Heels’ 37 contests during the 2025-26 campaign.

In a heartfelt message posted on social media, Powell thanked the North Carolina fanbase, his teammates, and the coaching staff for an unforgettable year wearing the Carolina Blue.

“Thank you for embracing and supporting me through the highs and lows of the past season,” Powell wrote. “I have learned so much both on and off the court. I was born and bred a Tar Heel, and to have the opportunity to put on that uniform, run through that tunnel, and compete for the university that I love is a feeling that is unmatched, and I’ll never take that for granted.”

Powell also reflected on the special bond he formed with his teammates, calling them “brothers” and vowing to cherish the memories they created during his time in Chapel Hill.

“To my teammates and brothers, I just want to say thank you for all the amazing memories we’ve made together during our journey. I’ll hold onto these moments forever.”

Ultimately, Powell made it clear that his decision to turn pro was driven by his lifelong dream to compete at the highest level:

“Competing at the highest level has always been the ultimate goal. This decision was nowhere near easy, but with the support and guidance of my family and coaches, I will be entering my name into the 2025 NBA Draft.”

A Bright Future Ahead

According to the latest mock draft from NBA Draft On SI, Powell is currently projected as a second-round pick, slotted to be selected No. 46 overall by the Orlando Magic. If that projection holds, he could join former Tar Heel standout Cole Anthony, creating a new UNC connection in the NBA.

Known for his defensive instincts, smooth mid-range game, and non-stop motor, Powell showcased flashes of star potential during his lone year with the Tar Heels. Scouts have praised his versatility and work ethic — two traits that could help him carve out a successful career at the next level.

UNC’s Growing NBA Pipeline

With Powell’s decision, UNC continues its strong tradition of developing NBA talent under head coach Hubert Davis. While Tar Heel fans will undoubtedly miss Powell’s presence both on and off the court, many will be rooting for him to thrive as he takes the next big step in his basketball journey.

As the 2025 NBA Draft draws closer, all eyes will be on Powell as he looks to make his childhood dream a reality — one that began on the hardwoods of North Carolina and will now continue on basketball’s biggest stage.

Best of luck, Drake. Once a Tar Heel, always a Tar Heel.