By R.L. Bynum
The whispers, however unfair, were growing louder in the fall of 1992.
Hall of Fame UNC coach Dean Smith hadn’t won a national championship in more than a decade. Meanwhile, rival Duke had seized back-to-back titles, tilting the balance of power in college hoops.
What followed was a season of resilience, redemption and a return to glory in a national-championship season. An hourlong ACC Network documentary “We’re #1! 1993 North Carolina Tar Heels,” which premieres at 8 p.m. Jan. 10, will document the season. It airs after the network’s broadcast of UNC’s home game against Wake Forest.
Through rare archival footage, including intimate home videos shot by the late Eric Montross, alongside photographs, game broadcasts and exclusive interviews, the documentary captures the heart and soul of a championship run.
Players on that championship team, including George Lynch, Donald Williams, Derrick Phelps, Henrik Rodl and others, share their memories, joined by coaches, rivals and witnesses to history: Roy Williams, Dave Odom, Jimmy King, Jay Bilas, Mick Mixon and Montross’ children, Andrew and Sarah.
The journey unfolds through defining moments: the stunning 21-point comeback against Florida State, the battles that tested their resolve, and the infamous timeout by Michigan’s Chris Webber in the national-championship game that sealed destiny.
But beyond the highlights, the documentary tells the a story of family and the enduring bond between Coach Smith, Bill Guthridge, and a team forever united by triumph.
ESPN has produced earlier “We’re #1” documentaries on Duke’s back-to-back titles in 1991 and 1992, the 1999 Florida State national championship football team and the 1981 Clemson national championship football team.
Image courtesy of ESPN
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