Dean Smith appeared to be a lefty. Not trying to knock the dead, but rather post facts that might not otherwise be known, although his political views are drawing praise among those eulogizing him. On the plus side, he fought against segregation. He also protested the war in Vietnam, nuclear weapons, and the death penalty. I’m sure he was a fine man and obviously a great coach but I’m not sure everyone here would sing his praises off the court.
Yes, Dean Smith was a liberal Democrat. Yet, he was too much of an old fashioned Southern Gentleman and one helluva basketball coach and mentor of young people to let that truly define him. He did not live for politics; he lived to influence and shape the character of young men. I spent a large part of my formative years watching Carolina basketball. My understanding of the game, and the appreciation of what “The Carolina Way” meant to the development of a young man was totally due to Coach men. From a Tarheel born and bred, God bless him. Requiescat in pace, Coach. Crash the boards.