Veteran college basketball analyst Chris Spatola, the son-in-law of former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, has passed away at the age of 47.
Spatola played college basketball at Army from 1998 to 2002 and was a two-time All-Patriot League selection. Upon graduating, he served in the U.S. Army before joining Krzyzewski’s staff in 2007. After five years as an assistant with the Blue Devils, Spatola became an analyst for ESPN and a host on Sirius XM radio. He was a member of the Hoops HQ family, contributing several articles about college hoops.
Spatola was married to Krzyzewski’s daughter, Jamie, and the two had three children together.
“There are no words to adequately express our heartbreak over the loss of our beloved Chris Spatola,” the Krzyzewski family said in a statement. “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.”
ESPN also issued a statement on Tuesday night: “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. 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.”
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