June 30, 2004

CHAPEL HILL -- The University of North Carolina men's basketball program delivered three checks on June 29 totaling $36,000 to the Interfaith Council Homeless Shelter on Rosemary Street, the Ronald McDonald House of Chapel Hill and UNC's Student Aid Fund.

The money was raised through the sale of approximately 650 basketballs, autographed by Tar Heel players and coaches during the 2003-04 season.

"This is a unique opportunity for our student-athletes to give back in a way that makes a direct impact on many people's lives," says head coach Roy Williams. "We get so many autograph requests throughout the year that I limit our players' signing to just these basketballs. But the real benefit is to help students and citizens less fortunate than us."

The money for the student aid fund goes to needy North Carolina residents who attend the University.

The basketball team selects the local charities on an annual basis. The team delivered food to and spent time with the Interfaith Council and Ronald McDonald House last Thanksgiving.

"We were impressed by our visits during the holiday and believe we could make a positive impact," says Williams. "It's always a highlight of each season."

During the season, the Tar Heel men's basketball team also purchased toys and other items for underprivileged children during the winter holidays and gave a clinic for North Carolina Special Olympics.