Former Duke University coach Mike Krzyzewski has a new job in retirement. And while it doesn’t sound as if it’s a full-time gig, Coach K has finally made it to the NBA.
As the NBA released in a statement, Krzyzewski will join the league office as a special advisor to basketball operations.
“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 NBA’s president of league 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.”
More specifically, Krzyzewski will provide “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,” the league noted.
“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 retired after the 2021-22 season and five national championships. As coach of the Blue Devils, he recorded 1,202 wins, 13 Final Four showings, 101 NCAA Tournament game wins and 36 trips to the tourney overall.
While Krzyzewski never coached in the NBA, he did have multiple opportunities, having been linked to the Lakers on several occasions throughout the course of his career. He also worked as head coach of the U.S. men’s basketball team, consisting of NBA players.
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