Gov. Roy Cooper presented coach Roy Williams with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state’s Highest Honorary Society, for his significant impact on the state of North Carolina during his tenure as men’s basketball coach at UNC-Chapel Hill and for contributions to the state of North Carolina.
“Coach Williams exemplifies what it means to be a Tar Heel and a North Carolinian,” said Gov. Cooper in a news release. “From his time on the court to his philanthropic endeavors, Coach Williams’ work and legacy continues to impact our state. I am excited to recognize his contributions and welcome him to the Order of the Long Leaf Pine.”
During his remarks, Williams discussed his time as UNC’s head coach and thanked his wife for her support. Williams and his wife have traveled across the country but always return home to North Carolina.
Williams spent 18 seasons as head coach of UNC’s men’s basketball team, leading the team to three NCAA National Championships, five Final Four appearances, nine ACC regular-season championships and three ACC tournament championships. Prior to coaching for UNC, Williams spent 15 seasons coaching at the University of Kansas.
Off the court, Williams and his wife have supported students through the Carolina Covenant Scholarship and Chancellor’s Science Scholars Program.
Feature photo: Former UNC basketball coach Roy Williams surprises the O’Neal School basketball teams in a visit in February/Photo credit Wendy Hodges.
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