Roy Williams, the beloved former head coach of the University of North Carolina (UNC) men’s basketball team, has added another accolade to his storied career.
This time, however, it’s not for his achievements on the court but for his remarkable contributions to the state of North Carolina.
On December 19, 2024, Williams was inducted into the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of North Carolina’s highest civilian honors, bestowed by Governor Roy Cooper.
This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary service to their communities and state.
Coach Williams exemplifies what it means to be a Tar Heel and a North Carolinian. Today, Gov. Cooper presented Coach Roy Williams with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state’s highest honorary society. pic.twitter.com/MiBNL0Cvmq
— Governor Roy Cooper (@NC_Governor) December 19, 2024
During the ceremony, Williams’ humility and gratitude shone brightly.
He spoke fondly of his time at UNC and expressed heartfelt appreciation for his wife, Wanda, acknowledging her support throughout his illustrious career.
Roy Williams’ Legendary Coaching Career
Roy Williams’ career is the stuff of legends.
Born in Marion, North Carolina, Williams began his coaching journey as an assistant coach at UNC under Dean Smith.
Subsequently, after serving as head coach at the University of Kansas for 15 years, he returned to Chapel Hill in 2003 to lead the Tar Heels.
Eventually, over 18 seasons, Williams guided UNC to three NCAA national championships (2005, 2009, and 2017), cementing his status as one of college basketball’s all-time greats.
However, Williams retired in 2021, leaving behind an impressive legacy that includes 903 career wins and a reputation for developing players on and off the court.
Two years ago today, Roy Williams announced his retirement from coaching. pic.twitter.com/yrKUQt0M91
— Keeping It Heel (@KeepingItHeel) April 1, 2023
Williams became a symbol of excellence and integrity in collegiate sports because of his passion, work ethic, and genuine care for his athletes.
Even in retirement, he actively supports UNC athletics, frequently attending games.
Roy Williams’ Wife, Wanda, Is The Constant Support Behind Him
While Roy Williams’ coaching accomplishments have been widely celebrated, his success would not have been possible without the steadfast support of his wife, Wanda Williams.
The couple’s story began in 1964 when they met as ninth graders in the Algebra I class at T.C. Roberson High School.
Their bond grew stronger at UNC-Chapel Hill, where they began dating.
In 1973, they tied the knot and embarked on a shared journey of love and dedication.
After marrying, the couple lived in Asheville for five years before embarking on Roy’s coaching journey.
In 2003, the Williams returned to North Carolina, settling in Chapel Hill, where Roy coached the Tar Heels.
Together, they raised two children, Scott and Kimberly, and now enjoy the company of their four grandchildren, who reside in the Charlotte area.
Roy Williams and his wife Wanda are always traveling to college basketball games during the season. Genuine goals. pic.twitter.com/TpkZXziPOj
— Cole Adams (@coleadamss) November 25, 2024
Earlier this year, Roy and Wanda were honored as grand marshals of the King Apple Parade during the North Carolina Apple Festival in Hendersonville over Labor Day weekend.
For Roy, sharing this moment with Wanda near the place where their journey began in freshman Algebra class made the occasion profoundly meaningful.
Reflecting on their partnership, Roy remarked,
“Wanda is still the most intelligent person I’ve ever known in my life and has done so many things for every team that I’ve ever coached. She’s allowed me to do the things that I felt like I needed to do as a coach, and I missed a lot of things with my kids. She was always the one that took care of everything, and so this is home for her, too.”
Via ABC13 News
The bond between Roy and Wanda is a shining example of a partnership built on love, respect, and shared purpose.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Roy Williams’ official name is Roy Allen Williams.
- He was born on August 1, 1950.
- In 2012, he had to go through surgery to remove a tumor from his kidney.
