“I am glad he is here to support Duke Blue Devils after coaching 40 years,” Jon Scheyer said when he introduced Mike Krzyzewski as the new bench coach. “He mentored me for years.”
In an emotional and unexpected move, Jon Scheyer, the head coach of the Duke Blue Devils, welcomed his former mentor and legendary figure in college basketball, Mike Krzyzewski, back to the Duke basketball program. The announcement sent shockwaves through the basketball world, as Krzyzewski, who retired after an illustrious 40-year coaching career, had not been expected to return to the sideline in any capacity. Scheyer’s words, delivered with genuine gratitude and respect, resonated deeply with the basketball community and Duke fans across the globe.
“I am glad he is here to support Duke Blue Devils after coaching 40 years,” Jon Scheyer said when he introduced Mike Krzyzewski as the new bench coach. “He mentored me for years, and I wouldn’t be in this position without him. Having him by my side, even in this new role, is a dream come true.”
This announcement marked the beginning of a new chapter for Duke basketball, with Krzyzewski—Coach K, as he’s affectionately known—taking on a role that no one could have predicted when he stepped down after the 2021-2022 season. Though Coach K officially retired as Duke’s head coach after guiding the Blue Devils to five national championships, numerous ACC titles, and countless NCAA tournament appearances, it appears his love for the game and the program has never wavered. This return to the bench, even in a supporting capacity, signals that his influence will continue to shape the program for years to come.
A Legendary Coach’s Farewell and Return
Mike Krzyzewski’s retirement from coaching marked the end of an era in college basketball. For nearly four decades, Coach K was the face of the Duke Blue Devils, bringing a level of consistency, excellence, and competitiveness that few college programs have matched. Under his leadership, Duke won five NCAA championships (1991, 1992, 2001, 2010, and 2015), made 12 Final Four appearances, and consistently produced NBA-caliber talent, including Grant Hill, Kyrie Irving, Zion Williamson, and many others.
His retirement at the end of the 2021-2022 season was an emotional moment for the college basketball world. The final game of his illustrious career took place at Cameron Indoor Stadium, where he had coached for over 40 years. A packed arena, full of former players, colleagues, and basketball legends, celebrated Coach K’s incredible contributions to the sport. The Blue Devils went on to the Final Four in his final season, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in basketball history.
After retiring, Krzyzewski made it clear that he would still be around the program in some capacity, but no one could have predicted what form that would take. While many thought he would take on a more reserved role, perhaps focusing on his family or his charity work, his reintroduction to the team as a bench coach surprised everyone.
Scheyer’s Transition and the Importance of Coach K’s Role
When Jon Scheyer was named as the head coach of the Duke Blue Devils, it was clear that his ascension was due in large part to the mentorship he received under Coach K’s guidance. Scheyer, a former Duke player who spent years as an assistant under Krzyzewski, was the natural choice to carry the mantle forward. His transition into the head coaching role was anticipated to be a smooth one, thanks to the years of preparation and mentorship he had under Coach K’s tutelage.
But Scheyer faced the monumental task of replacing a legend. Following in the footsteps of Krzyzewski, someone who had shaped the program for decades, was never going to be easy. However, Scheyer was no stranger to pressure—he had been groomed for this position from day one, learning the ropes under the guidance of one of the most accomplished coaches in basketball history.
Jon Scheyer’s introduction of Coach K as the new bench coach was not just a symbolic gesture but a tangible reflection of the continuity and stability of the Duke basketball program. Having the legendary coach by his side, even in a supporting role, provides Scheyer with invaluable experience, insight, and advice, as he navigates the challenges of his first few seasons as head coach.
“I know I can call on him at any time for guidance,” Scheyer said with a smile. “Having him here in this capacity—being part of the team and giving me his wisdom—is a gift. He’ll continue to shape this program even though he’s not the head coach anymore. That’s the kind of person he is. He will always be part of the fabric of Duke basketball.”
Krzyzewski’s Influence on Duke Basketball
It’s impossible to overstate the influence that Mike Krzyzewski has had on the Duke basketball program and the broader landscape of college basketball. Beyond the wins, championships, and accolades, Coach K’s impact is felt in the way he cultivated a culture of discipline, excellence, and integrity. Under his leadership, Duke became synonymous with high basketball IQ, toughness, and elite-level preparation.
Coach K was known for his ability to develop talent not just on the court but also as leaders off the court. His mentorship helped players navigate the transition from college basketball to the NBA with a strong foundation. Many former Duke players, such as Chris Duhon, Carlos Boozer, Elton Brand, and J.J. Redick, have consistently praised Krzyzewski for the lasting impact he had on their careers—not just as players but as people.
His legacy is also seen in the Duke family culture, where players, staff, and alumni often describe their relationship with the program as a lifelong bond. The respect and admiration for Coach K are universal within the college basketball world, and his influence continues to be a guiding force, even in retirement.
The Role of Bench Coach: A New Chapter for Coach K
Though Coach K’s return to the bench as a bench coach may seem unusual to some, it is not entirely unprecedented. Many retired coaches, especially those with the wealth of knowledge and experience that Krzyzewski possesses, have returned to programs in a different capacity. Some serve as special advisors, mentors, or in leadership roles that allow them to share their insights without the burden of day-to-day responsibilities as head coach.
For Coach K, this role allows him to stay close to the game he loves while passing on his vast basketball wisdom to the next generation. As Scheyer noted in his introduction, Coach K’s mentorship was integral to his own growth as a coach. Now, with Scheyer at the helm, it will be Coach K’s turn to offer guidance as his former player and assistant steps into the top position. While Coach K will not have the same on-court responsibilities that he once did, his role as a resource and mentor to Scheyer will be invaluable as the new head coach leads the Blue Devils into a new era.
In this new role, Krzyzewski will be able to contribute his expertise to game strategy, player development, and team dynamics—areas where his years of experience will make a difference. Scheyer, who has expressed deep admiration for Coach K’s knowledge and leadership, knows how crucial this partnership will be for the continued success of the program.
“I wouldn’t be where I am without Coach K,” Scheyer admitted. “The lessons he taught me, not just about basketball but about life, are ones that I carry with me every single day. He’s more than a coach to me; he’s a mentor, a friend, and a guiding force. Having him by my side in this new role will only help Duke basketball continue to thrive.”
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Duke Basketball
The return of Coach K, even in a new capacity, has injected a renewed sense of energy and excitement into the Duke Blue Devils program. As Jon Scheyer steps into his role as head coach, he now has the advantage of having his former mentor beside him, offering insight, wisdom, and unparalleled experience. While the 2022-2023 season may be his first as head coach, it is clear that Duke basketball is in good hands, thanks to the guidance of both Jon Scheyer and Mike Krzyzewski.
The future of Duke basketball is incredibly bright. With a head coach who understands the program’s values and culture, and a legendary figure like Coach K offering support from the sidelines, the Blue Devils are well-positioned to remain one of the most competitive teams in the NCAA. While Krzyzewski’s official retirement may have signaled the end of an era, his continued presence in the program ensures that the legacy he built will endure, influencing Duke for years to come.
“I am glad he is here to support Duke Blue Devils after coaching 40 years,” Jon Scheyer said with a smile. “He mentored me for years, and I wouldn’t be here without him. His presence on the bench will continue to shape this program as we look forward to the future.”
As the Blue Devils move forward into this new chapter, it’s clear that they’re not just playing for a title—they’re playing to honor the legacy of a coach who has redefined college basketball. The game may have changed, but Coach K’s influence will always be felt at Duke. And with Scheyer leading the charge, the Duke Blue Devils are ready for the next chapter in their storied history.
