UNC and Kansas basketball history: Looking at the deep-rooted rivalry of two blue bloods

Kansas basketball faces its first test of the 2024-25 campaign with a showdown against No. 9 North Carolina this evening. Both teams are looking to kick off the year with a marquee win to build their resume.

While the Jayhawks and Tar Heels don’t play often in the regular season, the two schools have an extensive history. Most UNC roots tie back to Kansas. What is some of the history between these blue bloods?

How is UNC connected to Kansas basketball?

The connection dates back to Dean Smith, the Hall of Fame coach who coached 36 seasons in Chapel Hill. Smith graduated from Kansas and played for the Jayhawks on the national championship-winning team. He finished his coaching career with two national titles.

Meanwhile, former Kansas coach Roy Williams infamously departed from KU to coach at UNC. He was in Lawrence from 1988-2003 and coached to a 418-101 record while making Final Four appearances. The Hall of Famer will not make his way to Allen Fieldhouse out of respect for both programs.

Finally, former coach Larry Brown played at UNC and recommended Williams for the KU job in 1988 after he won a national championship.

UNC vs. Kansas basketball game history

The Jayhawks have played the Tar Heels 12 times prior to tonight, resulting in an even 6-6 split. However, Kansas has won each of the past four matchups, all of which have come in the NCAA Tournament. Of course, the most recent meeting came in 2022 during the national championship game. Despite holding a .500 record, Kansas is only 1-4 in regular season games against UNC.