Legendary Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski named NBA basketball operations special advisor

Although Mike Krzyzewski stepped down as the head coach of Duke, he is not quite yet done in the basketball world. On Wednesday, he was named an NBA basketball operations special advisor, taking a job at the next level. Krzyzewski claims to still be passionate about the sport and will use the NBA as a way to stay involved.

“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. “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 was just one year removed from coaching, leading Duke for nearly 30 years. There were constant rumors surrounding Krzyzewski about moving to the NBA during his time in Durham. He never made the jump but will now get to work with the league in an advisory 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. “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.”

Coach K does have experience working with NBA players, doing so as the head coach of the United States men’s national teams. He earned three gold medals when running the program and another two as an assistant coach. The 2008 ‘Redeem Team’ was the most famous of the bunch, with plenty of stars — such as Carmelo Anthony, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Dwayne Wade — all featuring.

Mike Krzyzewski moving to NBA after legendary college career

Krzyzewski will go down as one of the all-time greats in coaching, regardless if you are discussing college or NBA. He turned Duke into a true blue blood of the sport, winning five national championships with the program. Three times he was named the Naismith National Coach of the Year as well.

One final run at a national title occurred during the 2021-2022 season. Duke wound up making the Final Four — being one of 13 career appearances — but losing to arch-rival North Carolina. While it might have been the ending anybody wanted, Krzyzewski has a resume that stacks up against anyone.