VCU Band Director Trolls UNC with Jordan Jersey During March Madness

The Rams couldn't capitalize on the courtside stunt, falling to Virginia in the next round.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 2:38am

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After VCU's upset win over North Carolina in the NCAA Tournament, the school's band director caused a stir by wearing a Michael Jordan UNC jersey during the team's next game against Virginia. The bold move was caught on camera, but VCU ultimately couldn't capitalize, losing to the Cavaliers and ending their tournament run.

Why it matters

The band director's troll job was a lighthearted jab at VCU's previous victory over the storied UNC program, but it also highlighted the intense rivalries and emotions that come with March Madness. While the stunt went viral, VCU's inability to advance further in the tournament despite the momentum shift raised questions about the team's overall performance and the future of North Carolina's program under coach Hubert Davis.

The details

During VCU's Sweet 16 matchup against Virginia, the Rams' band director was spotted on the court wearing the iconic No. 23 Michael Jordan jersey of the University of North Carolina. This was seen as a clear troll job, referencing VCU's upset victory over the Tar Heels in the previous round. However, VCU was unable to carry that momentum forward, falling to Virginia 67-55 and ending their tournament run.

  • VCU upset North Carolina on Thursday, March 21, 2026.
  • The band director's troll job occurred during VCU's game against Virginia on Saturday, March 23, 2026.

The players

VCU Rams Band Director

The individual responsible for the high-profile troll job during VCU's game against Virginia.

Hubert Davis

The head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels, whose team was upset by VCU in the NCAA Tournament.

Bubba Cunningham

The athletic director of the University of North Carolina, who stated he would make a decision on the future of the basketball program in the coming days.

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What they’re saying

“That's a little bit of a troll job”

— Ian Eagle, CBS Sports Commentator

What’s next

UNC athletic director Bubba Cunningham said he will make a decision on the future of the basketball program in the coming days, as the Tar Heels have struggled in the postseason despite overall success during Hubert Davis' tenure.

The takeaway

The VCU band director's bold troll job during the March Madness tournament highlighted the intense rivalries and emotions that come with the NCAA basketball playoffs. While the stunt went viral, VCU's inability to capitalize on the momentum shift and advance further in the tournament raised questions about the team's overall performance and the future of the storied UNC program.