Dean Smith was an American actor who is best known for He Got Game, Without Bias, and The Sport Jerks. He was born on February 28, 1931, in Emporia, Kansas, and passed away on February 7, 2015, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
Personal and Family Life
Dean Smith was married twice. His first marriage was to Margaret Ann Cleavinger in 1954, with whom he had three children before they divorced in 1973. He later married Linnea Smith in 1976, and they had two children together.
Career and Achievements
Smith was not only an accomplished actor but also a legendary basketball coach. He was one of the few individuals to both play and coach at the NCAA championship level. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1983, and at one point became the NCAA’s all-time leading coach with 879 wins. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades, including multiple Coach of the Year awards.
Death and Legacy
Dean Smith passed away on February 7, 2015, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in both acting and sports. His contributions to basketball, including innovation in coaching techniques and player development, have inspired many aspiring athletes and coaches. His impact continues to be felt in the sports community long after his passing.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| He Got Game | 1998-05-01 | Dean Smith |
| Dean Smith | 2015-03-25 | |
| Adele’s Wish | 2008-01-01 | Narrator |
| Michael Jordan to the Max | 2000-05-05 | Self |
| Great Sports Moments of the 80’s | 1989-10-10 | Self (archive footage) |