UNC Basketball: 1985-86 Season Roster & Highlights

by Jhon Lennon 51 views

The 1985-86 UNC basketball season was a memorable one for Tar Heel fans. Led by legendary coach Dean Smith, the team showcased a blend of talented veterans and promising newcomers. This article delves into the complete 1985-86 UNC basketball roster, providing insights into the players who donned the Carolina blue and their contributions to the team's overall performance.

The Roster

Here's a breakdown of the players who made up the 1985-86 UNC Tar Heels basketball team:

  • Steve Bucknall: A 6'6" guard/forward, Bucknall brought athleticism and versatility to the team. His ability to play multiple positions made him a valuable asset off the bench.
  • Warren Martin: At 6'11", Martin provided size and rebounding presence in the frontcourt. His contributions were crucial in defending the paint and securing second-chance opportunities.
  • Brad Daugherty: The star center of the team, Daugherty stood at 7'0" and dominated opponents with his scoring, rebounding, and passing skills. He was a consensus All-American and a force to be reckoned with.
  • Joe Wolf: Another key player in the frontcourt, Wolf, at 6'11", complemented Daugherty with his own scoring and rebounding prowess. His consistency and reliability made him a vital part of the team's success.
  • Jeff Lebo: A sharpshooting guard standing at 6'3", Lebo provided crucial perimeter scoring and playmaking abilities. His accurate shooting and smart decision-making were key to the Tar Heels' offensive efficiency.
  • Kenny Smith: The floor general of the team, Smith, at 6'3", was a dynamic point guard known for his exceptional passing, ball-handling, and leadership skills. He orchestrated the offense and made everyone around him better.
  • Ranzino Smith: A 6'4" guard, Smith provided depth and energy off the bench. His defensive intensity and hustle plays were valuable contributions to the team.
  • Curtis Hunter: At 6'4", Hunter added depth to the guard position. He was known for his defensive effort and willingness to contribute in any way possible.
  • Dave Popson: A 6'10" forward, Popson provided rebounding and interior defense. His physical play and willingness to do the dirty work made him a valuable role player.
  • Scott Williams: A 6'10" forward, Williams brought energy and athleticism off the bench. His rebounding and shot-blocking abilities were key in providing a spark to the team.
  • Kevin Madden: At 6'4", Madden provided depth to the guard position. He was known for his hard work and dedication to the team.

Key Players in Detail

Let's take a closer look at some of the key players who significantly impacted the 1985-86 UNC basketball roster:

Brad Daugherty

Brad Daugherty, the towering center, was the undisputed star of the team. His dominant presence in the paint made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Daugherty's offensive skillset was incredibly polished, featuring a soft touch around the basket, a reliable jump shot, and excellent passing ability for a big man. He consistently drew double-teams, creating opportunities for his teammates. On the boards, he was a relentless rebounder, securing crucial possessions for the Tar Heels. Daugherty's leadership extended beyond the court, as he was a respected figure in the locker room and a role model for younger players. His impact on the 1985-86 UNC basketball roster and the team's overall success cannot be overstated.

Kenny Smith

Kenny Smith, the dynamic point guard, was the engine that drove the Tar Heels' offense. His lightning-quick speed, exceptional ball-handling skills, and pinpoint passing made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Smith's ability to penetrate the lane and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates was unparalleled. He possessed a knack for making clutch plays and consistently delivered in pressure situations. Beyond his offensive prowess, Smith was also a tenacious defender, hounding opposing guards and disrupting their offensive flow. His leadership qualities were evident both on and off the court, as he directed the team with poise and confidence. Smith's contributions to the 1985-86 UNC basketball roster were instrumental in the team's success, and he remains one of the most beloved point guards in UNC history.

Jeff Lebo

Jeff Lebo, the sharpshooting guard, provided the Tar Heels with crucial perimeter scoring. His accurate jump shot and unwavering confidence made him a dangerous weapon from beyond the arc. Lebo's ability to space the floor and knock down open shots created opportunities for his teammates to drive to the basket. He was also a smart and unselfish player, always making the right pass and putting the team first. Lebo's contributions extended beyond his scoring, as he was also a reliable defender and a valuable role player. His presence on the 1985-86 UNC basketball roster provided the team with a much-needed offensive boost and helped them to achieve their goals.

Season Highlights

The 1985-86 season saw the Tar Heels achieve significant success, fueled by the talent and dedication of the players on the 1985-86 UNC basketball roster. Some of the season's highlights include:

  • Regular Season Success: The Tar Heels consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation, showcasing their dominance in the ACC and beyond. Their impressive record earned them a high seed in the NCAA Tournament.
  • ACC Tournament Run: The team made a strong push in the ACC Tournament, demonstrating their ability to compete against the best teams in the conference.
  • NCAA Tournament Appearance: The Tar Heels earned a coveted spot in the NCAA Tournament, where they showcased their talent on the national stage. While they didn't reach the Final Four, their performance was a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Coaching Staff

The success of the 1985-86 UNC basketball roster was also heavily influenced by the guidance and expertise of the coaching staff, led by the legendary Dean Smith. Smith's tactical brilliance, player development skills, and leadership qualities were instrumental in shaping the team's identity and maximizing their potential. His ability to foster a team-first mentality and instill a winning culture made him one of the most respected coaches in college basketball history. The assistant coaches also played a vital role in player development, scouting, and game preparation, contributing to the overall success of the program.

Where Are They Now?

Many of the players from the 1985-86 UNC basketball roster went on to achieve success both on and off the court. Some pursued professional basketball careers, while others transitioned into various fields such as business, education, and broadcasting. Brad Daugherty enjoyed a successful NBA career before transitioning to a career in broadcasting and NASCAR team ownership. Kenny Smith also had a long and successful NBA career and is now a prominent basketball analyst. Jeff Lebo has had a successful career as a college basketball coach. Regardless of their chosen paths, the players from the 1985-86 UNC basketball team remain connected by their shared experiences and the bond they formed during their time in Chapel Hill.

Conclusion

The 1985-86 UNC basketball roster was a special group of players who represented the University of North Carolina with pride and distinction. Led by legendary coach Dean Smith and featuring stars like Brad Daugherty, Kenny Smith, and Jeff Lebo, the team achieved significant success and left a lasting legacy. Their contributions to the program and the memories they created will forever be cherished by Tar Heel fans. The 1985-86 season serves as a reminder of the rich tradition and storied history of UNC basketball. Guys, remembering this team brings a lot of nostalgia and pride for any UNC basketball fan! It's teams like this that make college basketball so exciting and memorable. From the star players to the role players, each member of the 1985-86 UNC basketball roster played a crucial part in the team's success. So, let's raise a glass to these Tar Heels and celebrate their accomplishments!