University of North Carolina coach Roy Williams came to Chapel Hill in 2003 and he’s led the school to four national title games. During his time at the program, he’s sent countless UNC prospects to the NBA, but not one of the players have made an All-Star game, as Jonathan Tjarks of the Ringer notes.
That led Hoops Rumors to wonder: Out of all the Roy Williams-coached UNC players in the NBA, who’s the best?
Ty Lawson may be the leading candidate. The Nuggets traded away Chauncey Billups and Carmelo Anthony at the 2010/11 deadline and the move gave Lawson an opportunity to take control of the franchise. From 2011 to 2015, Lawson averaged 16.5 points and 8.0 assists while shooting 45.4% from the field and he helped Denver reach the playoffs each season. However, the franchise never won a playoff series while Lawson was the starter.
Danny Green is the most accomplished choice. He has a championship ring with the Spurs and he’s one of the best active UNC products. His role in San Antonio should allow him to be productive for the next several years, giving him longevity over players like Lawson. However, he’s never been an NBA team’s top option, which hurts his candidacy for the distinction.
Marvin Williams is another excellent role player who could be considered the best. He’s never lived up to his No.2 overall draft pick status, but he’s currently one of the Hornets’ most important players.
Harrison Barnes has the potential to be the best NBA player who Roy Willaims coached at UNC. He didn’t get the opportunity to showcase his all of his ability until he signed with the Mavericks this past offseason. He’s scoring 19.5 games in an expanded role in Dallas and he’s sporting an auspicious 16.6 player efficiency rating.
Does Raymond Felton belong in the conversation? How about John Henson? Let us know who you think is the best NBA player to play under Roy Williams at UNC. Is it one of the aforementioned names or is there another player who should be considered the best? Take to the comment section below to share your thoughts. We look forward to what you have to say!
I would say Barnes. He was a starter on a championship team, won a Gold Medal at the Olympics, and as you mentioned, has played well when given more touches. I think Justin Jackson has the potential to be the best Tar Heel in the NBA when he comes out.
Barnes and Williams and Green are consistent. Lawson has fallen off a cliff. I’d probably say Green is most accomplished.
Easily the best player is Barnes. No question. He’s the best 2 way player out of the bunch. Can score and defend. Remember this is the guy everyone talked about when Durant signed. Can Durant play D like Barnes did….
I’m not sure if Green is more accomplished. I think he’s got 2 rings? Barnes had 1 and a gold medal. Plus is now the leading scorer on a team. Green is a 3pt shooter that’s about it
Easy Harrison Barnes and he’s trending up big time
Barnes no question, he is the focal point on offense and plays D. Green is a situational player and along for the ride.
And I thought Duke players were busts. Sean May anyone?
Yeah, but not all of them are busts. Kyrie Irving is the best I can think of, though I’m sure there could be better guys. I’m pretty bad about where knowing where players went to college.
I think Harrison Barnes and he keeps getting better. He gets such a bum rap for his awful Finals performance, but he really is a good player in the NBA. The Mavericks can definitely build around him.