Chris Spatola, ESPN personality and son-in-law of legendary Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, dies at 47

Chris Spatola, a former Duke men’s basketball coach who later became a familiar voice as a college basketball analyst, has died at 47, according to ESPN. 

What we don't know:

The sports network said Spatola died unexpectedly, though no cause of death was immediately released. 

Spatola, who was married to the daughter of legendary basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski, spent several seasons on Krzyzewski’s staff before moving into his broadcasting role. He worked as an analyst for ESPN and SiriusXM, where he was known for sharp breakdowns of the college game and insight shaped by years inside one of basketball’s most successful programs. 

What they're saying:

Jason Evans, the host of The Duke Basketball Roundup posted a statement from the Krzyzewski Family:
"There are no words to adequately express our heartbreak over the loss of our beloved Chris Spatola. Chris served our country, was a devoted husband and father, and was such an important part of our family. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, thoughts, and prayers we have received during this incredibly difficult time. We respectfully ask for privacy as our entire family, particularly Jamie and her three beautiful children, grieve and process this unimaginable loss."

The backstory:

Spatola played at Army under one of Coach K’s longtime proteges. He led Army in scoring three of his four seasons there before graduating and spending five years of service on active duty from 2002 to 2007.  He was deployed in Operation Iraqi Freedom and received the Joint Service Commendation Medal for his combat performance. 

The other side:

After his career in the service, he moved on to join Duke’s staff in the mid-2000s, contributing to scouting, player development and recruitment. During his time there, he helped the Blue Devils win the 2010 NCAA Division I men’s basketball national championship. 

 

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