Walter Davis was one of the most consistent and versatile players in UNC history. A smooth shooter and excellent passer, he played a key role in UNC’s 1977 NCAA Tournament run, helping them reach the national championship game. His all-around skills made him a Tar Heel legend.
Though he only played one season at UNC, Bob McAdoo made a massive impact, averaging 19.5 points and 10.1 rebounds while leading the Tar Heels to the Final Four in 1972. His size, skill, and versatility set him apart as one of the best big men in college basketball history.
One of the most athletic players in UNC history, Vince Carter was known for his high-flying dunks and scoring ability. A two-time All-ACC selection, he helped lead the Tar Heels to two Final Four appearances (1997, 1998) and became one of the most electrifying players ever to wear Carolina blue.
A key part of the 1982 championship team alongside Michael Jordan and James Worthy, Sam Perkins ranks second in UNC history in both scoring and rebounding. His smooth shooting and defensive presence helped define the program in the early 1980s.
Lennie Rosenbluth led UNC to its first-ever national championship in 1957, going undefeated (32-0) and earning National Player of the Year honors. He averaged an incredible 28.0 points per game in his senior season, a record that still stands among Tar Heel greats.
Antawn Jamison was an unstoppable force at UNC, winning the 1998 Naismith and Wooden Awards while averaging 22.2 points and 10.5 rebounds per game that season. His ability to dominate the paint with quick scoring moves and rebounding made him one of the most efficient scorers in Tar Heels history.
A dominant forward, James Worthy led UNC to the 1982 national title, where he was named Final Four Most Outstanding Player. His combination of size, speed, and skill made him one of the most versatile players in college basketball history. Worthy was the No. 1 overall pick in the 1982 NBA Draft, reinforcing his status as an elite talent.
Phil Ford is widely regarded as one of the best point guards in college basketball history. A master of Dean Smith’s "Four Corners" offense, he won the 1978 Naismith Award and finished his career as UNC’s all-time leading scorer at the time. Ford’s leadership and elite passing ability helped define UNC basketball in the 1970s.
One of the most dominant college players ever, Tyler Hansbrough is UNC’s all-time leading scorer (2,872 points) and a force in the paint. He was a four-time First-Team All-ACC selection, won the 2008 National Player of the Year, and led the Tar Heels to a 2009 NCAA Championship. His relentless work ethic and intensity made him a fan favorite.
Arguably the greatest basketball player of all time, Michael Jordan’s legacy at UNC started with his iconic game-winning shot in the 1982 NCAA Championship against Georgetown. A two-time All-American, he averaged 17.7 points per game over his college career and won the Naismith and Wooden Awards in 1984 before heading to the NBA. His impact on the game and the UNC program is unmatched.
