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UNC coach Roy Williams undergoes surgery to remove tumor from kidney

RoyWilliams

North Carolina coach Roy Williams has undergone a surgical procedure to remove a tumor from his right kidney, multiple outlets reported and the school confirmed in a release Wednesday.

“The surgery went well and according to plan,” Dr. Eric Wallen said in the statement. “Coach Williams did great. I fully expect him to coach this season and for years to come. He could miss some practice time if we perform another procedure sometime in October, but he would be able to resume his coaching duties prior to the start of the regular season.”

The “additional surgery” that Wallen mentions is a procedure that would remove a tumor from Williams’ left kidney.

“As Coach Williams frequently says, he has the best staff in the country and I know they will do an excellent job as Coach Williams recuperates,” UNC athletic director Bubba Cunningham said. “We will be ready for his return as soon as he is able to do so, but I have stressed to him that he returns only when he has been given the medical approval and he is ready to do that. Hopefully that will be soon and for a long, long time to come.”

In his nine seasons with North Carolina, Williams has led the Tar Heels to a 257-68 record, including two national championships, three Elite 8 appearances, and two Final Fours.

The Tar Heels begin practice on Oct. 13. According to doctors, Williams should be fully recovered and ready to host practice by that date.

Daniel Martin is a writer and editor at JohnnyJungle.com, covering St. John’s. You can find him on Twitter:@DanielJMartin_