In late 2006, legendary former North Carolina coach Dean Smith spoke openly about the end of an era. Bob Knight was about to surpass his all-time NCAA Division I wins record of 879.
In response to a question about the milestone during a press conference, Smith smiled and said:
“I’m going to cry about that,” he joked.
It was a significant event in college basketball history that took place nearly ten years after Smith’s retirement in 1997. At a press conference in Chapel Hill, Smith made the remarks as Texas Tech coach Bob Knight was on the verge of surpassing Smith’s career victories.
Dean Smith finished his coaching career with a record of 879-254 with the Tar Heels. In addition to making 11 Final Four appearances and winning two national titles (1982 and 1993), Smith had a stellar reputation for strategy class and mentoring by that point. His reputation was quite different from his coaching abilities. It was often fiery, polarizing, and controversial.
Dean Smith Had Competitive Bond Built on Respect With Bob Knight
Dean Smith and Bob Knight’s relationship was often strained, but respectful, even during recruitment periods. During a recruiting battle with Knight, he recalled joking that a family had changed their mind about committing to Indiana after meeting him. His tales added humor and affection to what might have otherwise been a moment of passing the torch.
Nevertheless, Smith praised the recruitment skills of Knight, saying he is “well-deserving” and “a tremendous coach”.
Even though Smith’s remarks were lighthearted, they revealed a deeper reality: he was at ease with his position in the game’s history.
“All of it’s on coaching, I think,” Smith said. “He’ll always
be known as the coach — Coach Knight.”
There was always speculation on the nature of the relationship between Dean Smith and Bob Knight, but the. But what emerged was only mutual respect and quiet pride, not resentment. Knight’s 880th victory on Jan. 1, 2007, would break Smith’s record.
Knights finished his career with a record of 902-371. His record would top the leaderboard until Mike Krzyzewski overtook him in 2011, and ended with 1,202 wins and 368 losses.
But regardless of the record holder, Dean Smith’s legacy, based on heart and principle, continues to define excellence in collegiate basketball.
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