Dean Smith Dies at 83

Dean Smith, one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history, has passed away at the age of 83. Smith led the University of North Carolina to two national championships and 11 Final Fours over 36 years. He also recruited the school’s first African-American scholarship basketball player. “Coach Dean Smith passed away peacefully the evening of February 7 at his home in Chapel Hill, and surrounded by his wife and five children,” the Smith family said in a statement. “We are grateful for all the thoughts and prayers, and appreciate the continued respect for our privacy as arrangements are made available to the public. Thank you.”