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Jim Quist @ACCTheQ –
There is a certain hollowness that follows the announcement of Mike Krzyzewski retiring from Duke. His subtle and sometimes not so subtle intensity as a head coach created a love-hate relationship among basketball fans. If it bothered him he did a good job of sweeping those emotions under the rug. For me, an on-again, off-again admirer of Krzyzewski’s amazing coaching talent the announcement brought back to life a life-changing comment. A contemporary told me at my father’s funeral, “it’s our turn now, we’re that generation.” Just like those of our respective fathers, those will be some big shoes to fill.
The Stadium’s Jeff Goodman first reported the decision that Coach K would be retiring. Krzyzewski who turned 74 in February has 48 years of coaching under his belt. Krzyzewski began his career at Army in 1975 before getting off to a rocky start in Durham. Over the years, he’s led Duke to 5 NCAA Tournament victories and 12 Final Four games. The team has also racked up 27 ACC titles in regular season and tournament play under his guidance.
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The three time Naismith College Coach of the Year and five time ACC Coach of the Year has an amazing .784 winning percentage (1097-302 record) at Duke. Krzyzewski lead the U.S. Men’s National Team to three Olympic gold medals in 2008, 2012 and 2016.
Krzyzewski Retiring
Jon Scheyer, a former player and current Duke assistant is the coach-in-waiting. Scheyer has been with the program for eight years. The 33 year old has never been a head coach. When Scheyer first joined the program in 2013 Krzyzewski had this to say. “(He) is one of the amazing champions we’ve had in this program and he’s certainly one of the greatest young men to ever wear the Duke uniform. It is incredibly exciting to be part of his journey to become a coach. Jon will add all the things he brought to Duke as a player, this time as a member of our staff.”
Duke Vice President and Director of Athletics, Nina King, who took on her position May 19 will make it official later today. is expected to make the official announcement later. (updated 6/2/21 6:00pm E)
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