CHAPEL HILL – Phil Ford, the University of North Carolina’s legendary former point guard and assistant coach, underwent a surgical procedure on Tuesday (May 22) for prostate cancer.
Ford was recently diagnosed as a result of his annual physical. He is under the care of Dr. Eric Wallen, professor of urology at UNC Chapel Hill.
“As soon as I was given the news, I called Coach (Roy) Williams and he recommended Dr. Wallen,” says Ford. “I can’t thank Roy enough for making a great referral, as well as Dr. Wallen, the urology team at UNC and the Lineberger Cancer Center. I’m in a really good place spiritually and know I’m in the best place in the hands of God, Dr. Wallen and the staff at UNC Hospitals. I’ll manage this with their help and the support of my family and friends.”
“Fortunately, Phil has been proactive regarding his health, so this was caught early and the surgery went well,” says Dr. Wallen. “Men are often reluctant to go to the doctor unless something feels wrong. If we can get more men to the doctor for regular checkups, we can address common health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and prostate cancer before serious issues arise. Men’s health issues are important but under-recognized in our society.”
Ford was the 1975 ACC Tournament MVP as a freshman, the starting point guard on the 1976 gold medal winning U.S. Olympic Team, the 1978 National Player of the Year, the 1979 NBA Rookie of the Year, a seven-year NBA veteran, an assistant coach with the Tar Heels from 1988-2000, and an NBA assistant coach for seven seasons. He was inducted in 2012 in the College Basketball Hall of Fame.
The Rocky Mount native is second all-time in scoring (he held the scoring record from 1978-2008) and third in assists in Carolina history. Ford became synonymous with Dean Smith’s famed Four Corners offense, running it to near perfection from 1974-78, and was an assistant under Smith for 12 seasons, including the 1993 national championship team.
“Phil is one of a handful of people who, when you say his name, you think he is Carolina Basketball,” says Williams. “He certainly is one of the most beloved players who has ever played here. We’re glad they caught this when they did, and all of our prayers are with Phil and his family. He’s getting the best care possible with Dr. Wallen and his team.”
