ESPN college basketball analyst Chris Spatola died suddenly, network officials said Tuesday, triggering a flood of tributes for the former West Point guard and Army combat veteran.
The network did not reveal how Spatola — the son-in-law of all-time college basketball coaching wins leader Mike Krzyzewski — died, only saying that he had “passed away unexpectedly Monday.”
He was 47.
“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,” according to an ESPN statement.
“He was thoughtful, prepared and passionate about the sport, earning the respect of colleagues, coaches, players and fans alike,” the network said. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones during this difficult time.”
Spatola had been with ESPN since 2015, following a distinguished career on the basketball floor and battlefield.
“I am devastated over the passing of my friend and colleague Chris Spatola. Chris was a wonderful human being,” fellow ESPN college basketball analyst Jay Bilas said in a statement.
“With Chris, it was never about him, it was only about the game, the players, the coaches, and the fans,” Bilas said. “Heartbroken beyond words to lose such a great friend, yet grateful beyond words to have known him.”
Spatola is the the 10th leading scorer in Army history, contributing 1,543 points over 111 games (13.9 ppg) between 1998 and 2002.
He’s No. 4 on the career Army list for 3-pointers, sinking 238 of his 637 long-range tries (37%).
“Devastated to hear the news of the loss of Chris Spatola,” ESPN broadcaster Rece Davis said in a statement. “Brilliant, funny, dedicated to his family, hoops and his crafts of coaching and broadcasting.”
Following that illustrious career at West Point, Spatola was active duty from 2002 to 2007, which included a tour during Operation Iraqi Freedom, ESPN said.
Spatola stepped out of fatigues and back on to the hardwood as an assistant coach for Duke basketball between 2007 and 2012. The Blue Devils cut down the nets in 2010, led that season in scoring by current head coach Jon Scheyer.
Spatola and his wife, Jamie Krzyzewski Spatola, have three children.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Chris Spatola,” according to a Duke basketball statement. “Chris was a beloved Army veteran, coach, broadcaster, and true friend to the Duke Basketball family. We send our love and condolences to his wife Jamie and three children, the Spatola and Krzyzewski families, and everyone who loved him.”
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