What will Duke’s former coach Mike Krzyzewski do for the NBA now that he’s been given a job?
Few in the game today have a CV that compares to Duke’s now retired ‘Coach K.’ Indeed, that’s probably the reason why the NBA has given him a new job.
It would be safe to say that former Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski couldn’t ignore the itch. Recently retired, the legendary tactician now has a new adventure embark on and of all places, it’s in the NBA.
NBA gives Coach K a new job
According to an announcement from the NBA on Wednesday, Former Duke head coach and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer, Mike Krzyzewski, has been appointed Special Adviser to NBA Basketball Operations. ‘Coach K’ as he’s known to basketball fans, is the all-time wins leader in NCAA Division I men’s basketball and a six-time Olympic gold medalist as head coach of the USA Basketball Men’s Senior National Team. Of course, the move comes as a bit of a surprise after Krzyzewski announced his retirement last year, following 42 seasons in charge of the Duke’s program.
What exactly will Mike Krzyzewski do for the NBA?
It is understood that Krzyzewski will provide counsel to the league office, team executives and other stakeholders in the league on a wide array of issues which directly relate to the game. While there has been no official start date given, it is expected that he will begin his new role in the next few weeks. Indeed, Krzyzewski has made it clear that he’s very excited to start his new job.
“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 of his new role with the league. “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.” As mentioned before, Krzyzewski coached the USA Men’s Senior National Team on multiple occasions, which is to say he’s got extensive experience working with NBA players, something the NBA is very aware of having convinced him to take on the role. “We are honored to have Coach K join the NBA family and share his vast experience and expertise with the league and our teams,” NBA President of League Operations Byron Spruell said in a statement. “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.”