Mike Krzyzewski named special adviser to NBA basketball operations
Posted May 10, 2023 12:27 p.m. EDT
Updated May 10, 2023 1:42 p.m. EDT
The NBA announced Wednesday that it has appointed former Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski to special adviser to basketball operations.
In his new role, the 76-year-old Hall of Famer will provide counsel to the league office, NBA team executives and other leaders across the league on a host of issues related to the game. He will begin in this consulting capacity by attending a meeting of NBA general managers next week in Chicago, according to a release from Duke University.
"This is a tremendous opportunity to deepen my connection to the NBA and participate in conversations about further strengthening the league and the game," Krzyzewski said in a news release. "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."
With this new role, Coach K will remain in his post-coaching retirement position as an ambassador to Duke University.
Krzyzewski joins the NBA one year after completing a storied 47-year career as a college basketball head coach, including 42 seasons at Duke (1980-2022) and five seasons at his alma mater, Army West Point (1975-80). He went 1,202-368 (.766) overall and 1,129-309 (.785) with the Blue Devils, making him the winningest men's coach in NCAA history and at one school.
"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 NBA President of League Operations Byron Spruell. "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."
Krzyzewski retired from college basketball as the all-time wins leader in NCAA Division I men's basketball (1,202–368 record) and a six-time gold medalist as head coach of the USA Basketball Men's Senior National Team.
During his 42-year tenure at Duke, Krzyzewski won five national championships and set the NCAA record for Final Four appearances by a head coach with 13. He also holds NCAA Tournament records for the most victories (101) and appearances (36) by a head coach.
