Netflix has officially announced the release date for its highly anticipated and deeply emotional documentary honoring one of college basketball’s most revered figures — legendary North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Dean Smith.
Titled “Dean Smith: More Than a Coach”, the film is set to premiere on November 15, 2025, and promises to be a heartfelt tribute to the man who not only built a basketball empire but also transformed the lives of countless young men through leadership, compassion, and courage.
This special Netflix documentary isn’t just about basketball — it’s about values, vision, and vulnerability. It dives deep into the life and legacy of Coach Dean Smith, who led UNC to two national championships, 11 Final Four appearances, and over 879 career wins.
But the documentary focuses just as much on the human side of Smith — the civil rights advocate, the mentor, the father figure, and the humble leader who always put people over points.
“Dean Smith didn’t just coach champions — he created them,” says the film’s narrator in the trailer.
“This is his story, as told by those who knew him best.”
- Never-before-seen footage from inside the UNC locker rooms, practice facilities, and Smith’s own archives
- Exclusive interviews with former players like Michael Jordan, James Worthy, Vince Carter, and Phil Ford
- Heartfelt reflections from Roy Williams, Coach K, Hubert Davis, and former President Barack Obama
- A moving exploration of Smith’s role in desegregating college basketball in the South
- A look at his quiet humanitarian efforts, including helping players finish their degrees and mentoring beyond the court
Tar Heel Nation has responded with overwhelming emotion following the announcement.
“This will bring tears to a lot of eyes,” tweeted UNC alum and ESPN analyst Jay Bilas.
“Dean Smith was one of the greatest coaches — and humans — the game has ever seen.”
The documentary will be released globally on Netflix and is expected to be one of the most-watched sports documentaries of the year — not just among UNC fans, but for anyone who loves the game and appreciates the power of character-driven leadership.
In a time when college sports often seem overrun by headlines of money, drama, and ego, “Dean Smith: More Than a Coach” reminds us that true greatness is measured not just in wins, but in the lives touched.
Prepare to be inspired. Prepare to cry.
Because on November 15th, the world gets to relive the story of a man who changed the game — and the world — one player at a time.
