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11/22/2024 10:29:42 am

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Coach Mike Krzyzewski Earns 1,000th Win with Duke Blue Devils

Coach Mike Krzyzewski

(Photo : Reuters)

Mike Krzyzewski, head coach of the Duke Blue Devils, marks his career with another milestone of greatness as he has earned his 1,000th victory as they beat St. John's Red Storm men's basketball team, 77-68.

Affectionately known as "Coach K" to many, the night was one that had nothing at stake really.

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In 2011, Krzyzewski had already surpassed Bob Knight's record for most wins by an NCAA Division 1 Men's basketball coach with 902. From there, he just kept going.

And kept winning.

Nearly 20,000 thousand people came to Madison Square Garden to see Krzyzewski win one more important game for Duke.

Late in the second half, the win was well in sight as the Blue Devils orchestrated a 15-1 run. It was enough to ensure the win.

After the game, camera crews and reporters swarmed Krzyzewski. He had interview after interview. Meanwhile, his players wore white shirts with the words "Coach K" on the front and "1,000 wins and Kounting" on the back.

The team members were also ecstatic for the monumental moment, as they huddled, danced, and impregnated the air with one chant: "Family!"

Krzyzewski, at 67 years of age, said that he was honoured and very lucky to have been at two great institutions, West Point and Duke.

He adds that he has had tremendous support throughout the years, and he never had to worry about his back for the 40 years he coached. This, he said, was a rare thing that not all people can say about themselves.

When asked about how he stayed so energetic and the longevity of his career, he said that energy is not a matter of age.

"It's a matter of commitment to your position, to what you do," Krzyzewski said.

He looked back at the recent game with a profound sense of awe, stating that there was a magical atmosphere about the game. After 1,400 games in his career, this past game could still feel different for Krzyzewski.

That's why he loves the game.  

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