On February 7, 2015, at the age of 83, Dean Smith passed away at his home in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He was a beloved basketball coach, player, and engineer, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come. Born on February 28, 1931 in Emporia, Kansas, Smith showed a passion for basketball from a young age. He played as a point guard for the University of Kansas under legendary coach, Phog Allen, and helped lead the team to two Final Four appearances in 1952 and 1953. Smith's impressive on-court abilities caught the attention of many, and he was drafted to play for the Kansas City Steers in the Professional Basketball League (now known as the NBA). After a brief stint playing professionally, Smith left to pursue a career in engineering, earning a degree from the University of Kansas in 1953. However, his love for basketball never diminished and he returned to the sport as an assistant coach at the Air Force Academy in 1958. He then went on to serve as an assistant coach at the University of North Carolina (UNC), where he eventually took over as head coach in 1961. Smith's coaching career at UNC spanned 36 years, during which he achieved unparalleled success. He led the team to 11 Final Four appearances and two NCAA championships (in 1982 and 1993). He also coached some of the most well-known players in the sport, including Michael Jordan, James Worthy, and Vince Carter. Aside from his impressive coaching record, Smith was also known for his progressive attitudes and beliefs. He was an advocate for racial integration in sports, implementing the first integrated college basketball team in the Atlantic Coast Conference. He also showed a strong commitment to academic success, with a high graduation rate for his players. Smith's contributions to the world of basketball were widely recognized and he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1983. He also received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013. Dean Smith's impact on the sport of basketball and the UNC community will never be forgotten. He will be remembered as a dedicated coach, a talented player, and an overall remarkable individual. May his legacy continue to inspire future generations.