Roy Williams knew when he accepted the North Carolina coaching job that he'd have to rebuild.
He just didn't think he'd have to do it twice.
But with Raymond Felton, Sean May, Rashad McCants and Marvin Williams taking the leap to the NBA, the veteran coach now faces a restoration project at least as daunting as the one he faced in 2003.
Marvin Williams, the No. 2 pick, joined the Atlanta Hawks. The Charlotte Bobcats took Felton with the fifth pick and May with the 13th. McCants went to Minnesota Timberwolves at the No. 14 spot.
"It would be easier, there's no question, if the exact same team came back, if these guys all came back," Roy Williams said, almost wistful in his tone. "They might be the best team that's ever played here. But at the same time, it's college basketball."
And in college basketball, talented players who win often find their value too high to resist the jump.
But it's those left behind who ultimately pay the price, and in the case of this season's Tar Heels, those left behind might struggle simply to return to the NCAA Tournament the team dominated this year.
"I talked with David (Noel) and Reyshawn Terry, and I told them, 'This is your guys' team now,'" May said. "Dave has to emerge as the leader of this team."
Despite the losses, North Carolina's most crucial element stays consistent in Roy Williams.
