ESPN analyst and former Duke University staffer Chris Spatola has died at 47 years old, according to Duke University and ESPN.
He served on the Duke men's basketball coaching staff from 2007-12, was a court coach on the U.S. Men's National basketball team and as a basketball analyst for ESPN and SiriusXM radio for more than a decade, according to his website.
No cause of death has been announced for Spatola, who was also a U.S. Military Academy at West Point and a U.S. Army veteran.
“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 the 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.”
He is survived by his wife Jamie Krzyzewski Spatola, daughter of Hall of Fame Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, and their three children.
Here's what to know about Chris Spatola.
When did Chris Spatola die?
Chris Spatola died suddenly on Monday, Sept. 21 at 47 years old, ESPN and Duke University said in statements.
"We write to you to share the incredibly difficult news that Chris Spatola passed away unexpectedly yesterday. Many of you have gotten to know Chris over the years as our funny and sharp witted K Academy emcee and hugely passionate and dedicated coach," Duke University said in a statement published by Jason Evans of "The Duke Basketball Roundup."
"Chris was married to Coach K and Mickie's daughter, Jamie, and they shared 3 bright and delightful children. Chris served for the US Army, was a former member of our coaching staff, and a truly gifted basketball commentator. Chris was a huge part of our Duke Basketball and K Academy family."
How did Chris Spatola die?
No cause of death has been reported yet for Spatola.
Who was Chris Spatola?
Chris Spatola was an ESPN and SiriusXM basketball analyst, public speaker and former Duke University men's basketball coaching staffer, according to his website.
He was the son-in-law of legendary Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski, married to his daughter Jamie.
A military veteran, Spatola graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and served in the U.S. Army, earning a Joint Service Commendation Medal, his website noted.
Spatola worked on the Duke basketball coaching staff during the team's 2010 National Championship win, according to his website. He also was a court coach for the U.S. Men's National basketball team that won gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and 2010 World Championships in Istanbul.
“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 Krzyzewski family said in a statement provided by Duke University, published by Evans.
Chris Spatola is survived by his wife Jamie Krzyzewski Spatola and their three children.
USA TODAY contributed.
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Mike Krzyzewski's son-in-law dies at 47. What happened
