“I should say I’m not retiring, I’m opting out”: When UNC legend Roy Williams delivered an emotional farewell speech after ending 33-year career

Four years ago, in April 2021, Roy Williams ended his legendary coaching career at North Carolina. He led the UNC men's basketball team for 18 years, from 2003 to 2021. He also coached the Kansas Jayhawks for 15 years before the Tar Heels.

Williams announced his retirement at the Dean E. Smith Center, ending his 33-year coaching career. He also spent 10 years as an assistant under Dean Smith and coached a high school team for five years before that.

Despite his announcement being a heartfelt moment for the school and the fans, Williams displayed a mix of humility, humor and emotions. The coach took a jab at modern lingo used in the CBB space, showcasing pride for his roots and gratitude for his career.

"In today's times, I should say I'm not retiring or resigning ... I'm opting out," he said. "That's the most ridiculous phrase I ever heard my whole life. Why the hell don't you just say I quit?"

"So I'm old school and I can't use those words ... But I will tell you I am retiring and resigning as the men's basketball coach at North Carolina. It's been a thrill. It's been unbelievable. I loved it. It's coaching."

Roy Williams posted a 485-163 winning record with UNC (903-264 overall), leading the school to six Final Four appearances (nine including Kansas) and three NCAA championships (2005, 2009, 2017).

---

Roy Williams donated $600k for students to continue playing during the pandemic

After the NCAA canceled the season on Mar. 12, 2020, one of the things on Roy Williams' mind was the future of senior-year players affected by the pandemic. With that, the coach and his wife, Wanda, anonymously offered $600k to cover the scholarships of the spring sports seniors who wanted to return the next season.

"Hundreds of student-athletes and coaches have prospered under his leadership," Chancellor Kevin M. Guskiewicz said. "Yet thousands of other students never had the chance to meet Coach Williams but have benefited from his and Wanda’s generosity."

Bubba Cunningham, UNC's athletic director, ultimately convinced Wanda and Roy to publicize their donation in hopes of inspiring others to do the same.