Former UNC men’s basketball head coach Roy Williams sent an urgent message to Hubert Davis concerning…
The University of North Carolina men’s basketball program is built on tradition, legacy, and the bond between past and present coaches. That bond was on display this week when legendary former head coach Roy Williams reportedly sent an urgent message to his successor, Hubert Davis, concerning the direction of the Tar Heels heading into the 2025–26 season.
Williams, who retired in 2021 after nearly two decades at UNC and three national championships to his name, has remained a constant presence around the program. Though no longer calling plays, his love for the university and its basketball family has kept him engaged — often as a mentor and sounding board for Davis. According to program insiders, Williams’ message this week was both supportive and pointed, urging Davis to focus on three key areas that he believes will determine Carolina’s success this season.
First and foremost, Williams stressed the importance of preserving what he often calls “the Carolina Way.” For Williams, the program has always been about more than wins and losses; it’s about selflessness, discipline, and pride in representing something bigger than oneself.
“Don’t let the outside noise drown out who we are,” Williams reportedly told Davis. “What makes Carolina special is not just talent — it’s how we play together, how we carry ourselves, and how we pass that on to the next generation.”
The message is timely. With a roster stacked with both veteran leaders and incoming stars, Davis faces the challenge of blending egos, expectations, and styles into a single cohesive unit. Williams’ words served as a reminder that culture must remain at the center.
Williams also warned Davis about the immense pressure that comes with leading UNC during a period of high anticipation. After revealing their new roster, the Tar Heels have been labeled by many as one of the scariest lineups in college basketball. With such hype comes the weight of expectation, something Williams knows well from his years under the Dean Dome spotlight.
“Pressure can make teams tighter or tear them apart,” Williams’ message noted. “It’s your job to keep the group loose, focused, and hungry.”
This advice reflects Williams’ own philosophy during his tenure: focusing on effort and preparation rather than rankings and outside predictions. By doing so, he often helped his players perform at their best when it mattered most.
Finally, Williams encouraged Davis to trust in the young players on his roster. While veterans will always be crucial, Williams reminded his successor that it is often fearless freshmen and rising sophomores who provide the spark that carries teams through March Madness.
“Let the young guys run, make mistakes, and grow,” Williams said. “That energy is what can push a good team to become great.”
With several five-star recruits set to make their UNC debuts, Williams’ advice could prove prophetic.
The urgent message underscores the unique relationship between Roy Williams and Hubert Davis. One built the legacy, the other now carries it forward. For Davis, having the wisdom of his mentor at his side is more than just comforting — it’s a competitive advantage.
And for Tar Heel fans, it’s another reminder that while coaches may retire, the Carolina family never truly leaves.
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