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Dean Smith requested $200 be sent to each of his former players in will

The late Dean Smith, who died last month, willed his trust to send $200 to each of his former North Carolina basketball players.
Dean Smith letter former players

Late North Carolina basketball coach Dean Smith, who died last month, willed his trust to send $200 to each player who lettered under him, Tim Breedlove, who wrote the letter, confirmed to SI.com.

Smith died at 83 on Feb. 7 at his North Carolina home. He coached for 36 years at UNC, winning 879 games and two NCAA championships.

Dean Smith deserves praise for more than just his on-court contributions

In the letter Smith's former players received from Miller McNeish & Breedlove, PA, it was revealed that Smith requested each of his former players be sent a $200 check with the message, "enjoy a dinner out compliments of Coach Dean Smith." The enclosed checks also included the notation, "Dinner out."

By SI's count, Smith coached 184 players from 1961 to 1997.

The Longest Goodbye: Friends, family mourned Smith before his death

GALLERY: SI'S BEST PHOTOS OF DEAN SMITH

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(H/t @ChestPassDemps)

Mike Fiammetta