Paolo Banchero reveals biggest lesson learned under Mike Krzyzewski

Former Duke basketball star Paolo Banchero added his name to a long list of young stars to make a name for themselves under now-retired head coach Mike Krzyzewski. After joining the “Brotherhood” as one of the final players to play under the Hall of Fame coach’s direction, he has a unique view of the legacy left behind.

During an appearance with ESPN ahead of the 2022 NBA Draft Lottery, Paolo Banchero discussed the greatest lesson he learned from Mike Krzyzewski in his short time at Duke.

 “With Coach K, you learn something every day,” said Banchero. “The main thing I really took away from him was, no matter the situation is or where you are, always present yourself in a strong way. Whether that’s on the court or off the court, never showing your opponent weakness or fatigue. Always look like you’re ready for the next play.

“And then off the court, looking presentable. Look like people can come up and approach you. And being a genuine person, that’s probably the biggest thing he taught me.”

During his one season at Duke, Paolo Banchero played a key role in leading Mike Krzyzewski’s final team to the Final Four before a loss against ACC rival North Carolina. After starting the season with hydration issues which made national headlines, he worked his way into shape and put any questions behind him down the stretch by playing long stints in every meaningful game.

In 39 games, Banchero averaged 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists, also adding 1.1 steals and 0.9 blocks. He did so on 47.8 precent shooting from the field and 33.8 percent shooting from the 3-point line.

Paolo Banchero on draft stock

Paolo Banchero also broke down why he believes he should become the top pick in the class, an honor which would now place him on the Orlando Magic roster.

“I feel like I’m the No. 1 pick in the draft, just because I feel like I’m the best overall player,” said Banchero. “I feel like I check all the boxes. Whether that’s being a great teammate, being able to be the star player, or doing whatever the coach needs.

“I’ve been a winner my whole life, won everywhere I went. And when I get to the NBA that’s going to be the same goal for me. So just combining all those things and knowing what I have to work on to be better is the formula for me.”

The traits described by Banchero are backed up by his outstanding resume, which spans across high school, AAU and college seasons. He continues to develop into an all-around player and could become an intriguing piece with any of the rebuilding franchises on top of the draft board.