Tar Heel Talk: Rashad McCants Opens Up on NBA Finals, Michael Jordan, Bill Belichick and More
Former North Carolina Tar Heel standout Rashad McCants recently sat down for an unfiltered and electric conversation that spanned everything from the NBA Finals to the legacy of Michael Jordan and even dipped into the world of NFL greatness with comments about Bill Belichick. Known for his bold takes and fearless honesty, McCants delivered exactly the kind of commentary that fans have come to expect.
McCants, who helped lead the Tar Heels to a national championship in 2005, didn’t hold back when asked about this year’s NBA Finals. He praised the star power on display but criticized the lack of defensive effort compared to earlier eras. “It’s like a scoring contest now,” he said. “Where’s the grit, the grind, the identity? It’s flashy, but it’s not basketball at its purest.”
When it came to Michael Jordan, McCants struck a more nuanced tone. Despite his past tension with the UNC program, he called Jordan “the blueprint,” acknowledging that MJ’s impact goes far beyond the court. “Whether you love him or not, Jordan changed the game and made UNC what it is today,” McCants admitted. “He opened doors for all of us.”
Still, McCants offered a sharp take on the myth-making around Jordan. “I think sometimes we forget that even greatness needs context. MJ was in the perfect era, perfect marketing storm. I wonder if he’d be as dominant in today’s era where everyone has a camera and social media,” he questioned.
Surprisingly, the conversation took a turn toward the NFL when McCants was asked about greatness across sports. That’s when he brought up legendary coach Bill Belichick. “Belichick is the Jordan of coaching,” he said. “He doesn’t just win—he builds dynasties and develops soldiers. It’s mental warfare with that guy.”
McCants also compared the mentality of Belichick-led Patriots teams to the 2005 Tar Heels squad. “We had that same mindset: sacrifice for the bigger picture. You weren’t playing for yourself, you were playing for the name on the front, for a banner, for history.”
He also commented on how today’s athletes are distracted by fame and platforms, contrasting that with his own college days. “Now it’s about going viral. Back then, it was about getting that ring,” McCants said. “And honestly, I think that’s why guys like Jordan, Belichick, Kobe—they separated themselves. Focus.”
While McCants has sometimes been a controversial figure in Tar Heel circles, he showed maturity and insight throughout the interview. He spoke briefly about his growth over the years, and how speaking the truth—no matter how uncomfortable—has always been his mission. “I was never going to play politics,” he said. “I’d rather be respected for being real than loved for being quiet.”
He hinted at some future projects, including a podcast that will dive into stories from his playing days and his views on sports culture. “There’s a lot that people don’t know—locker room truths, college politics, hidden agendas. I’m gonna talk about it all,” he teased.
As for North Carolina basketball today, McCants said he’s still a fan and is hopeful about the direction of the program. “We need to bring back that old-school toughness, that edge. Carolina should never be soft. We’re built on warriors.”
Whether you agree with him or not, Rashad McCants continues to be one of the most provocative voices in basketball commentary. And with his fearless approach to speaking his mind, it’s clear that the former Tar Heel isn’t done making noise just yet.
