Top five North Carolina Tar Heels basketball players of all time

Determining the top five North Carolina Tar Heels basketball players of all time is subjective. These players have left an indelible mark on North Carolina basketball and are celebrated for their contributions to the program and their outstanding performances on the court.

Here is a list based on their impact, achievements, and contributions to the program, from 5 to 1:

5. Antawn Jamison

Antawn Jamison played for the Tar Heels from 1995 to 1998. He was a consensus National Player of the Year in 1998 and led the team to two Final Four appearances. Jamison was also known for his rebounding and scoring ability, averaging 22.2 points and 10.5 rebounds per game in his junior year.

4. Phil Ford

Phil Ford was a standout player from 1974 to 1978. He is considered one of the best point guards in college basketball history. Ford won the Wooden Award in 1978 and was a consensus All-American. He was known for his exceptional ball-handling, scoring, and leadership, finishing his career as UNC’s all-time leading scorer at the time.

3. James Worthy

James Worthy played for the Tar Heels from 1979 to 1982. He was a key player in the 1982 NCAA Championship team, earning the Final Four Most Outstanding Player award. Worthy was known for his athleticism and scoring ability, which helped him become the first overall pick in the 1982 NBA Draft.

2. Tyler Hansbrough

Tyler Hansbrough played from 2005 to 2009 and is one of the most decorated players in UNC history. He won the Naismith College Player of the Year award in 2008 and led the Tar Heels to an NCAA Championship in 2009. Hansbrough is the all-time leading scorer in ACC history and is known for his relentless work ethic and scoring prowess.

1. Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, played for the Tar Heels from 1981 to 1984. He made the game-winning shot in the 1982 NCAA Championship game and was a consensus All-American in 1983 and 1984. Jordan’s impact on the game and his legendary professional career make him the most iconic player in Tar Heels history.