UNC Adding Former Player to Coaching Staff

• “Coach [Michael] Malone gave us a feeling of respect and understood what Carolina Basketball means to everyone who was standing in that room,” Thompson said in a statement pertaining to Malone's introductory press conference last month. “He said he wants to honor the tradition, and it is important to him that we are heard. He wants to bring us together even more than ever before.”

Based on Malone's comments at his introductory press conference, this decision aligns with his message to North Carolina fans.

Malone's Comments

• “I know I’m not a guy that has been here before, but I want to do everything I can to make sure the former players are coming back, because they all said to me, ‘It’s not like it used to be,’” Malone said.

• “So, one of my goals is not just on the court - wins or losses - but how can I strengthen that family atmosphere and get guys coming back and help pay it forward? Because you always want to pay it forward to the guys that are coming next after you, and I think we have a great chance to do that," Malone concluded.

Significance of Hire

Bringing in a former player who has experienced everything at North Carolina is an important factor that not many people will consider. Next year's team has a ton of pressure on its shoulders to deliver success, especially in the ACC and NCAA Tournaments. It is somewhat unfair for most of the players on the roster, as the majority of the personnel are newcomers this offseason.

However, pressure is an inherent feature of the program. No matter the circumstances, North Carolina is expected to compete for a national championship every season. While that is an unrealistic expectation in 2026, with a first-time college head coach and a roster filled with moving parts, the Tar Heels need to take baby steps to reach that ultimate goal.

Thompson being on the staff is such a big deal because he can relate to these players and teach them through his own experiences in Chapel Hill