Introduction
Matt Doherty is a former basketball player who made a name for himself at the University of North Carolina. He played for the Tar Heels from 1980 to 1984 and helped the team win the NCAA championship in 1982. After his successful college career, Doherty went on to play in the NBA for a few years before transitioning to a career in coaching. However, Doherty’s story doesn’t end there. In 2020, he made headlines once again, this time as a professional soccer player.
Early Life and Basketball Career
Matt Doherty was born on February 11, 1962, in East Meadow, New York. He grew up in a family of basketball players and was introduced to the sport at a young age. Doherty attended high school at Holy Trinity Diocesan High School in Hicksville, New York, where he excelled on the basketball court. He was named a McDonald’s All-American in 1980, which helped him earn a scholarship to the University of North Carolina.
At UNC, Doherty was a standout player. He was a two-time All-ACC selection and helped lead the Tar Heels to the NCAA championship in 1982. Doherty’s college career was impressive, and he was considered one of the best players in the country. After graduating, he was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the fourth round of the 1984 NBA Draft.
NBA Career and Coaching
Doherty played in the NBA for four seasons, spending time with the Cavaliers, New Jersey Nets, and Boston Celtics. He was a solid player, but his career was cut short due to injuries. After retiring from basketball, Doherty transitioned to coaching. He spent time as an assistant coach at Davidson College and the University of Kansas before getting his first head coaching job at Notre Dame in 1999.
Doherty’s coaching career was up and down. He had success at Notre Dame, leading the team to the NCAA tournament in his first season. However, he struggled at his next job, as the head coach at the University of North Carolina. Doherty was fired after just three seasons, and his coaching career seemed to be in jeopardy.
Transition to Soccer
In 2020, Matt Doherty made headlines once again, but this time it wasn’t for basketball or coaching. Doherty had taken up soccer and was playing professionally for the Greenville Triumph SC, a team in the USL League One. Doherty had always been a fan of soccer and had played the sport growing up, but he never pursued it seriously until later in life.
Doherty’s transition to soccer was impressive. He quickly became a key player for the Triumph, and his skills on the field were impressive. Doherty’s success in soccer was a testament to his athleticism and dedication to the sport. He proved that it’s never too late to pursue a new passion.
Conclusion
Matt Doherty’s story is one of perseverance and dedication. He had a successful basketball career and coaching career, but he didn’t let that define him. Instead, he pursued a new passion and found success in soccer. Doherty’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to try something new and chase your dreams.
FAQ
Who is Matt Doherty?
Matt Doherty is a former basketball player for the University of North Carolina and a professional soccer player.
What position did Matt Doherty play in basketball?
Matt Doherty played shooting guard for the University of North Carolina basketball team.
Did Matt Doherty have a successful basketball career?
Yes, Matt Doherty had a successful basketball career at UNC. He was a member of the 1982 NCAA Championship team and was named to the All-ACC team in 1983.
Why did Matt Doherty switch from basketball to soccer?
After his basketball career, Matt Doherty pursued a career in coaching, but eventually turned to soccer and became a professional player.
What position did Matt Doherty play in soccer?
Matt Doherty played as a defender in soccer.
Which professional soccer teams did Matt Doherty play for?
Matt Doherty played for several professional soccer teams, including Luton Town, Derby County, and Queens Park Rangers.
Did Matt Doherty have a successful soccer career?
Yes, Matt Doherty had a successful soccer career. He played for several years in the English Premier League and represented the Republic of Ireland national team.
