In a thrilling comeback reminiscent of a historic 1993 game, the University of North Carolina's men's basketball team overcame a 21-point deficit to defeat Dayton, 82-80, at the Lahaina Civic Center. Coach Hubert Davis, drawing inspiration from legendary coach Dean Smith, strategically used timeouts to boost his team's confidence and guide them through the comeback. The victory highlighted the team's resilience and Davis's effective coaching, echoing Smith's legacy in managing game situations.
Dean Smith, the new head coach of Charlotte FC, has a deep connection to the Carolinas beyond his name. His son, Jamie Smith, has immersed himself in both North and South Carolina through his soccer career, playing for Limestone University and NC State before joining Greenville Triumph SC. The Smith family frequently visits the Carolinas and even invested in a vacation home in Myrtle Beach. Now, Dean Smith is leading the MLS franchise in the region, marking a new chapter for both the club and his coaching career.
Charlotte FC has named Dean Smith as their new head coach. The 52-year-old Englishman, known for his managerial experience in the Premier League, has signed a multi-year contract pending receipt of his visa. Smith's successful tenure at Aston Villa, where he led the team back to the Premier League and secured their survival, highlights his leadership abilities. He is also recognized for his talent in player recruitment and development. Charlotte FC's ownership is confident that Smith's experience and leadership will elevate the club to championship status.
During his Hall of Fame Enshrinement weekend, basketball coach Gregg Popovich paid tribute to legendary UNC basketball coach Dean Smith, reflecting on the year he spent shadowing Smith at North Carolina. Popovich credited Smith with teaching him the importance of building relationships and staying connected with people, a lesson he carries with him to this day. Smith's impact on the sport of basketball and his caring nature towards his players continue to be remembered and celebrated.
Leicester City, who won the Premier League in 2016, have been relegated to the EFL Championship despite beating West Ham United 2-1 on the final day of the season. The club's trajectory from champions to relegation in such a short time period raises questions about how a club with so much individual talent could fall so far. The club faces a huge summer of change, with eight players out of contract and a need to rebuild. Leicester's primary domestic disappointment was dropping out of the Champions League places in the final few weeks of the 2020 season.
Former NBA player and UNC basketball legend Eric Montross has been diagnosed with cancer at the age of 51. Montross, who played for six different teams during his eight-year NBA career, is beginning treatment at UNC Lineberger Center in North Carolina. He has been a radio analyst for UNC men's basketball games since 2015. Montross was a key member of the 1993 national championship squad and played for legendary head coach Dean Smith from 1990-94.
