THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: North Carolina Tar Heels men’s basketball Former Head Coach Roy Williams Who coached in the National basketball 18 seasons. Nicknamed “Knick Killer” Return As Co-Owner For Indiana Pacers Making……. see more

THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Legendary Coach Roy Williams Returns — As Co-Owner of the Indiana Pacers

June 26, 2025 – Indianapolis, IN — In a stunning and emotional twist that’s sending shockwaves through the basketball world, Roy Williams, the iconic former head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels, is returning to the game — not on the sidelines, but in the front office.

The 3-time NCAA Champion, who spent 18 seasons at UNC and is affectionately known as the “Knick Killer” for his teams’ dominance against New York prospects and East Coast elites, has officially joined the Indiana Pacers as a co-owner.

A Basketball Legend Takes a New Role

Williams, 74, retired from coaching in 2021, closing out a Hall of Fame career that spanned over four decades, including time at Kansas before becoming a Tar Heel legend. He accumulated over 900 career wins and helped develop countless NBA talents. But few expected a return to basketball in this form.

“I’ve always loved the game, and I’ve always believed in helping young men grow on and off the court,” Williams said in a statement released by the Pacers. “Joining the Indiana Pacers family allows me to do that in a whole new way. I’m excited for this next chapter.”

“Knick Killer” Joins Forces with the Future

The nickname “Knick Killer” — a nod to how his squads routinely outplayed future Knicks talent — takes on a new twist now that he’s part of the Pacers, a long-time rival of New York. Fans are already speculating about what this means for Indiana’s long-term vision, especially with a young, rising roster built around Tyrese Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, and newly re-signed forward Obi Toppin.

What This Means for the Pacers

Roy Williams’ return as a co-owner brings more than just name recognition. It brings championship pedigree, elite basketball knowledge, and a culture of winning. While he won’t be involved in day-to-day coaching, insiders believe his influence on player development, scouting, and team-building will be significant.

Pacers Governor Herb Simon called the move “one of the most meaningful additions to our organization in recent history,” noting that Williams’ “experience and passion for basketball are unmatched.”

Stay tuned for more updates as the Pacers make moves both on and off the court — with Roy Williams now back in the game, this franchise’s future just got a whole lot brighter.

SEE MORE: Full interview with Roy Williams and Pacers front office – coming soon on Pacers.com