**Netflix, ESPN, and Guinness World Records Unite for Powerful New Documentary Chronicling the Legendary Career of Roy Williams – The Iconic UNC Tar Heel Coach Who Redefined College Basketball Excellence**

**Netflix, ESPN, and Guinness World Records Unite for Powerful New Documentary Chronicling the Legendary Career of Roy Williams – The Iconic UNC Tar Heel Coach Who Redefined College Basketball Excellence**

 

In a landmark collaboration, Netflix, ESPN, and Guinness World Records have come together to produce a powerful new documentary chronicling the legendary career of Roy Williams — the iconic University of North Carolina Tar Heels coach who left an indelible mark on college basketball. Titled *“Roy: Tar Heel Heart,”* the film explores Williams’ life, legacy, and the values that defined one of the greatest coaching careers in NCAA history.

Roy Williams, a native of North Carolina, rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most successful and respected coaches the game has ever seen. Over a career spanning more than three decades, Williams amassed over 900 wins, three national championships (2005, 2009, 2017), and nine Final Four appearances — achievements that earned him a place in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007. But as this new documentary reveals, his impact went far beyond wins and trophies.

Netflix brings its storytelling excellence and cinematic flair to the project, known for hits like *The Last Dance* and *Untold*, while ESPN contributes rich archival footage and insider perspectives from its deep roots in college basketball coverage. Guinness World Records adds a unique dimension by spotlighting several of Williams’ coaching milestones — including his record as the only coach in NCAA history to win 400 games at two different schools (Kansas and UNC).

*“Roy: Tar Heel Heart”* weaves together never-before-seen footage, exclusive interviews with former players, assistant coaches, family members, and fellow legends like Mike Krzyzewski, Dean Smith protégés, and Bill Self. These voices offer a heartfelt, unfiltered look into Roy Williams’ evolution — from his early coaching days under Dean Smith, to becoming the face of UNC basketball for nearly two decades.

The documentary also explores his deep emotional connection to his players and the UNC community. Williams was widely known not just for his coaching brilliance, but for the relationships he built and the life lessons he passed on. His famous saying, “Play hard, play smart, play together,” became more than a motto — it became a culture.

Beyond the court, the film highlights Williams’ personal trials, including his health scares and his emotional retirement in 2021, which shook the college basketball world. His decision to step away was as graceful and selfless as his approach to coaching — always putting the program and people above himself.

Executive producer Maria Vasquez calls the documentary “a tribute to a coach who lived the game with passion and integrity.” She adds, “Roy Williams didn’t just win — he taught, inspired, and led with heart. This film captures that essence.”

Set to premiere in summer 2026 on Netflix, with a simultaneous ESPN broadcast and a Guinness World Records feature honoring his achievements, *Roy: Tar Heel Heart* promises to be a must-watch for basketball fans and anyone who values leadership, legacy, and the power of purpose.