The University of North Carolina has pledged to keep the names of legendary coaches Dean Smith and Roy Williams on its men's basketball arena and court, regardless of renovation or relocation plans. This commitment comes amid discussions about updating the 40-year-old Dean E. Smith Student Activities Center. Fans continue to debate the future of the on-campus venue known as the Dean Dome.
The University of North Carolina's men's basketball program currently plays at the Dean E. Smith Student Activities Center, commonly called the Dean Dome, which opened in 1986 and bears the name of former coach Dean Smith. The playing surface is named Roy Williams Court, honoring the coach who succeeded Smith. The university is evaluating options to renovate or replace the 40-year-old facility, sparking discussions among Tar Heels supporters.
A university spokesperson stated on Monday, “The University is committed to retaining Coach Smith’s name on the arena and Coach Williams’ name on the court whether we renovate or build new.”
Dean Smith coached UNC for 36 seasons, amassing 879 wins and two national championships. Roy Williams, who assisted Smith for a decade before leading Kansas to over 400 victories, returned to UNC and secured 485 wins and three national titles over 18 seasons. The court was named for Williams in 2018.
In a social media video, Williams expressed his desire to maintain the arena on campus, noting it aligned with Smith's wishes. Smith passed away in 2015 at age 83, while Williams, now 75, retired in 2021 but remains active at UNC games. Current head coach Hubert Davis played under Smith and assisted Williams.