Mike Krzyzewski named adviser to NBA basketball operations

Mike Krzyzewski, former head coach of the Duke Blue Devils, watches during the first half of their game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Cameron Indoor Stadium on February 14, 2023 in Durham, North Carolina. Grant Halverson/Getty Images/AFP

Hall of Fame coach Mike Krzyzewski has been appointed the NBA’s special adviser to basketball operations, the league announced Wednesday.

He will begin his new role next week at the meeting of NBA general managers in Chicago. The league said in a news release that Krzyzewski will be counted on to “provide counsel to the league office, NBA team executives and other leaders across the league on a host of issues related to the game.”

Krzyzewski retired in 2022 after 47 seasons of college coaching, including 42 at Duke. He also coached the USA Basketball men’s national team, winning six gold medals — including three straight Olympic championships from 2008-16.

“We are honored to have Coach K join the NBA family and share his vast experience and expertise with the league and our teams,” said Byron Spruell, the league’s president of basketball operations. “As a preeminent coach and renowned leader who cares deeply about the game of basketball, he is uniquely suited to drive discussions and offer insights about the present and future of the NBA.”

The 76-year-old coach said he is excited to return to the game after some time away.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to deepen my connection to the NBA and participate in conversations about further strengthening the league and the game,” he said. “Even in my retirement from coaching, my passion for the sport has never been higher. This role will enable me to stay engaged with basketball at the highest level.”

Krzyzewski started his coaching career at Army in 1975. He posted a career record of 1,202-368 overall and 1,129-309 at Duke, making him the winningest men’s coach in NCAA history and at one school.

The Blue Devils won five national championships under Krzyzewski, who holds NCAA Tournament records for the most victories (101) and appearances (36) by a head coach.

He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2001.

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