Basketball fans sporting acid-washed jeans, scrunchie socks and teased hair will transcend time tonight as they watch the Tar Heels battle Virginia in an ’80s-style matchup.
UNC’s Department of Athletics, in conjunction with ESPN and Nike, will put on “80s Retro Night” in the Smith Center, where players, fans and commentators will sport 80s-style clothing for UNC’s game against Virginia.
Players on both teams will wear Nike V-neck uniforms, modeled after those worn in the 1980s. Commentators Mike Patrick, Len Elmore and Doris Burke will adorn ’80s attire, and spectators are encouraged to do the same.
For those not watching the game in person, ESPN will display television graphics that were used during the decade.
“I think it’s a neat marketing experience,” said Michael Beale, director of marketing for UNC athletics. “This will bring back a lot of tradition for both schools.”
Beale said the players are excited to participate in the retro event, the only such event in recent UNC history. “I think they’re going to have a lot of fun with it,” he said. “It’s been really positive.”
Beale said that during “Late Night with Roy” skits, players joked about dressing up for games, and he anticipates that spirits will be high tonight.
Students attending the game tonight said they are eager to participate.
“It’s a good way to get everyone excited about the game and have a little theme go along with it,” said Ann Schnell, a first-year romance languages graduate student. Schnell, a Virginia native, said she will be extra pumped to cheer on the Tar Heels because of the promotion.
