Statement From Michael Jordan on the Passing of Dean Smith

“Other than my parents, no one had a bigger influence on my life than Coach Smith.  He was more than a coach – he was my mentor, my teacher, my second father.  Coach was always there for me whenever I needed him and I loved him for it.  In teaching me the game of basketball, he taught me about life.  My heart goes out to Linnea and their kids. We've lost a great man who had an incredible impact on his players, his staff and the entire UNC family.”   Michael Jordan