Chris Spatola, Basketball Analyst and Son-in-Law of Coach K, Dies at 47

Chris Spatola, a college basketball analyst for ESPN and the son-in-law of legendary Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, has died unexpectedly at the age of 47. The Krzyzewski family and ESPN confirmed his passing on Tuesday night.

No cause of death was provided. A statement from the Krzyzewski family described Spatola as "a devoted husband and father."

Spatola played college basketball at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he was a four-year starter and earned second-team All-Patriot League honors in 2001 and 2002. After graduating in 2002, he served as a graduate assistant coach for Army before entering active duty. He was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and received military commendations for his service.

He joined Coach K's staff at Duke as a graduate assistant and head team manager, later being promoted to director of basketball operations in 2008. During his five years on the Duke staff, Spatola also served as a court coach for the gold-medal-winning U.S. Men's Olympic Basketball Team in 2008 and for the 2010 FIBA World Championship.

In 2015, Spatola began working for ESPN, providing game and in-studio analysis for college basketball. He also hosted on SiriusXM radio.

"Chris Spatola brought a unique perspective to ESPN’s college basketball coverage, shaped by his experiences as a student-athlete, Army veteran, coach and broadcaster," ESPN said in a statement. "He was thoughtful, prepared and passionate about the sport, earning the respect of colleagues, coaches, players and fans alike. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones during this difficult time."

Spatola is survived by his wife, Jamie, and their three children: John David, Mackenzie, and Madeline.