Chris Spatola, basketball analyst and son-in-law of retired Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, dies at 47, tell me about this news in (https://www.wral.com/news/ap/de4b7-chris-spatola-basketball-analyst-and-son-in-law-of-retired-duke-coach-mike-krzyzewski-dies-at-47/)

Chris Spatola, a college basketball analyst for ESPN and the son-in-law of legendary former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 47.

Key details reported about his life, career, and passing:

• Passing and Statements: Both Duke University and the Krzyzewski family confirmed the news, stating that Spatola died suddenly. In an emotional statement, the Krzyzewski family described their heartbreak, remembering him as an important part of the family, a devoted husband and father, and an honorable veteran. ESPN and Duke also released tributes praising his passion, intellect, and profound impact on college basketball coverage. No official cause of death was immediately released.

• Family: Spatola was married to Jamie Krzyzewski Spatola, the daughter of Hall of Fame coach Mike Krzyzewski and his wife, Mickie. Together, Chris and Jamie had three children.

• Military Service and Playing Career: Before his coaching and broadcasting career, Spatola attended the United States Military Academy at West Point. He was a four-year starter for the Army basketball team and a three-time leading scorer. Following graduation, he served five years on active duty as a U.S. Army officer, deploying during Operation Iraqi Freedom and earning the Joint Service Commendation Medal.

• Coaching and USA Basketball: After concluding his military service, Spatola joined Coach K’s staff at Duke from 2007 to 2012, working as an assistant coach and director of basketball operations, including during Duke’s 2010 NCAA National Championship run. He also served as a court coach for USA Basketball’s Men’s National Team during their gold-medal runs at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2010 FIBA World Championship.

• Broadcasting: Following his time at Duke, Spatola transitioned to the media, where he spent over a decade as a respected college basketball analyst for ESPN and a host on SiriusXM College Sports Radio.