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Chris Spatola, Mike Krzyzewski's Son-In-Law and ESPN CBB Analyst, Dies at 47

Adam Wells
Sep 23, 2026

Chris Spatola, a former assistant coach on Mike Krzyzewski's staff at Duke and ESPN college basketball analyst, has died at the age of 47.

ESPN issued a statement about Spatola in the wake of his death:

"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."

Spatola, who was also the son-in-law to Krzyzewski after marrying his daughter, Jamie Krzyzewski Spatola, in 2004, worked on the Blue Devils staff from 2007 to 2012.

He won a national title as part of the 2009-10 team that defeated Butler in the championship game.

Spatola went to college and played basketball at Army where he was a four-year starter from 1998 to 2002. He ranks in the top 10 in program history in career points (1,543).

Following his graduation, Spatola served five years in the United States Army from 2002 to '07 before going to work at Duke. Krzyzewski also brought Spatola on as a court coach for Team USA during the 2008 Olympics and 2010 FIBA World Championship.

Spatola was hired as a college basketball analyst in 2015.