Tez Walker reacts to NCAA eligibility, North Carolina debut
After fighting to get eligibility to play this season, North Carolina wide receiver Tez Walker was finally cleared by the NCAA in the week leading up to the Syracuse game. He proceeded to lead the Tar Heels onto the field in his emotional season opener.
After the game, Walker met with the media and spoke about his emotions and what the moment felt like for him.
“It’s just a blessing,” Tez Walker said. “Just blessed to be out there. Had my teammates in my corner since I’ve been there it was the same thing since I’ve been here but on the field, helping me out and everything. So, just blessed.”
North Carolina won the game against Syracuse 40-7. Going into the game, the Tar Heels weren’t certain of how many snaps he’d play, though. In the end, he played a decent amount, snagging six receptions for 43 yards in the blowout win.
Throughout the process to get back on the field, Tez Walker received support from his teammates and fans alike. That’s the kind of support that he’s always dreamed about as a player.
“It’s just dope. I mean, it’s something I’ve dreamed about since I was six years old and I started playing, being in front of stuff like that, stuff happening like that. So, it’s a blessing.”
Despite all of that support, Walker did admit that he got to the point where he doubted that he’d see the field this season.
“I did,” Walker said. “Yeah, I was at a point where when I was on scout team, I was just prepping for next year. Like I thought there was no chance that I was gonna get cleared.”
Finally, the NCAA announced its decision to grant Tez Walker eligibility for this season on Thursday. For Walker, it was a shock, especially given that he had already resigned himself to preparing for the 2024 season.
“It was very shocking, like I was surprised, but I was just glad it was over. It just felt like a weight was lifted off my shoulders.”
A large part of why Tez Walker chose to transfer to North Carolina was to be near his ailing grandmother. When he shared the news with her, it became an emotional family moment.
“She screamed. I had to turn my phone down she screamed so loud, but she was really happy. My mom teared up. So, it was a heartfelt moment.”
Mack Brown on Tez Walker being made eligible
Following the announcement that Tez Walker would be made eligible, North Carolina head coach Mack Brown released a statement.
“We were thrilled to find out earlier today that Tez Walker has been granted his immediate eligibility and will be available for the remainder of the 2023 season. We’re so happy for Tez. Everything that’s transpired over the last few months has been with the sole purpose of helping and supporting him, and now he’s going to have a chance to live his dream,” Brown said.
“We want to express our gratitude to the people at UNC who have worked tirelessly to assist Tez. We never gave up. We also want to thank the NCAA for being willing to re-examine Tez’s case, and ultimately deciding to grant him his eligibility. This is, and always has been, about the welfare of this young man, and we can’t wait to see him on the field doing what he loves to do.”