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Signed 1982 UNC Tar Heels Basketball Heads to Auction
Ball features autographs from Michael Jordan, James Worthy, and other legends from the championship team
Mar. 22, 2026 at 7:05am
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A basketball from the 1981-82 North Carolina Tar Heels championship team, signed by legends like Michael Jordan and James Worthy, is set to be auctioned off by Heritage Auctions. The ball is expected to sell for over $10,000 when bidding opens on April 24th, as it represents a rare piece of UNC basketball history from one of the best college teams ever.
Why it matters
The 1981-82 UNC Tar Heels are considered one of the greatest college basketball teams of all time, led by future NBA superstars Michael Jordan and James Worthy. This auction provides a unique opportunity for fans and collectors to own a piece of that storied history.
The details
The basketball features the autographs of Jordan, Worthy, Sam Perkins, Buzz Peterson, Cecil Exum, Warren Martin, John Brownlee, and other members of the championship team. That squad went on to defeat Patrick Ewing's Georgetown Hoyas in the NCAA Championship game, with Jordan hitting the game-winning shot.
- The basketball is from the 1981-82 season.
- Bidding for the item will open on April 24th.
The players
Michael Jordan
A legendary basketball player who was a key member of the 1981-82 UNC Tar Heels championship team and went on to become one of the greatest NBA players of all time.
James Worthy
A star forward on the 1981-82 UNC Tar Heels team who was named the NCAA Tournament's Most Outstanding Player that season.
Dean Smith
The iconic head coach of the 1981-82 UNC Tar Heels team, known for his disciplined system that helped develop elite talent like Jordan and Worthy.
Patrick Ewing
The star center for the Georgetown Hoyas, who faced off against the Tar Heels in the 1982 NCAA Championship game.
Heritage Auctions
The auction house that will be selling the signed 1982 UNC Tar Heels basketball.
What’s next
Bidding for the signed 1982 UNC Tar Heels basketball will open on April 24th through Heritage Auctions.
The takeaway
This auction provides a rare opportunity for fans and collectors to own a piece of UNC basketball history from one of the greatest college teams ever assembled, featuring the autographs of legends like Michael Jordan and James Worthy.
