Sept. 22, 2026Up to date Sept. 23, 2026, 8:17 p.m. ET
Chris Spatola, a former Duke staffer from 2007 to 2012 and the son-in-law of legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, died abruptly at age 47 on Monday, Sept. 21, Duke and ESPN confirmed in separate statements.
Spatola, who was additionally a faculty basketball analyst for ESPN and SiriusXM for greater than a decade, performed faculty basketball at Military, the place his father-in-law received his teaching begin. Spatola was a four-year starter who served within the Military upon his commencement earlier than becoming a member of Coach Okay’s workers. The Blue Devils received a championship in that span, in 2010, with now-Duke head coach Jon Scheyer as a part of that crew.
We write to you to share the extremely tough information that Chris Spatola handed away unexpectedly yesterday. A lot of you’ve gotten gotten to know Chris over time as our humorous and sharp witted Okay Academy emcee and massively passionate and devoted coach.
Chris was married to Coach Okay and Mickie’s daughter, Jamie, they usually shared 3 brilliant and pleasant youngsters. Chris served for the US Military, was a former member of our teaching workers, and a really gifted basketball commentator. Chris was an enormous a part of our Duke Basketball and Okay Academy household.
Please see under for a press release from the Krzyzewski Household:
“There are not any phrases to adequately categorical our heartbreak over the lack of our beloved Chris Spatola. Chris served our nation, was a loyal husband and father, and was such an necessary a part of our household. We’re deeply grateful for the outpouring of affection, ideas, and prayers we have now acquired throughout this extremely tough time. We respectfully ask for privateness as our complete household, notably Jamie and her three stunning youngsters, grieve and course of this unimaginable loss.”
ESPN additionally revealed a press release on Spatola’s passing.
“Chris Spatola introduced a singular perspective to ESPN’s faculty basketball protection, formed by his experiences as a student-athlete, Military veteran, coach and broadcaster,” the community wrote. “He was considerate, ready and passionate concerning the sport, incomes the respect of colleagues, coaches, gamers and followers alike. We lengthen our heartfelt condolences to his family members throughout this tough time.”
How did Chris Spatola die?
No explanation for dying was supplied by the household of their assertion, solely saying Spatola “handed away unexpectedly.”
He was 47 years outdated.
What to find out about Chris Spatola spouse, household
His spouse is Jamie Krzyzewski Spatola, who’s the daughter of Mike and Mickie Krzyzewski. She’s the youngest of their three daughters with Debbie and Lindy.
Spatola’s youngsters are John David, Mackenzie and Madeline.
