End of an Era

Thank You Coach K

By Duke University

March 4^th, 2022

As the curtain falls on Mike Krzyzewski’s long, successful career, the outpouring of gratitude, appreciation and pride is evident across campus and beyond. The winningest coach in all of basketball history will play the last home game in his forty-two year career against the North Carolina Tar Heels on Saturday, March 5, 2022.

On March 18, 1980, Mike Krzyzewski signed a contract with the Duke University Athletics Department and began a career few have rivaled. His career includes 5 NCAA Division I titles, 12 Final Fours, 15 ACC tournament championships, 3 Olympic gold medals and an historic 1,000+ wins in NCAA Division 1 Men’s Basketball.

Below is a compendium of appreciation and love shown over the last week in advance of his last home game.

Season Forty Two

Krzyzewski-ville

K-ville for short, is a Duke University tradition that began around 1986 as undergraduate students wait in line for access to designated games. What began with sleeping bags evolved into a 150+ tent experience over the years.

A group of Crazies are ready for the game in their coordinating Semsame Street costumes holding a sign that says "Krzyzewski St"

A Tribute from Students

Days before Coach K’s final game in Cameron, students from K-ville painted a mural to honor his legacy.

Students from K-Ville paint a mural on the East Campus bridge to honor Coach K and celebrate his last game in Cameron.

Daylight has faded and a bus passes the site of the mural

Cameron Crazies

The student section is alive during basketball games. Known as the “Sixth Man” for their spirit and for their humorous pranks, Duke students are recognized for their painted faces and outrageous outfits.

Crazies in creative costumes and Duke gear get pumped up for the game

Cameron Crazies in costumes and face paint cheer next to the court

Crazies in light-up blue devil horns cheer in a dark Cameron Indoor Stadium

Five NCAA National Titles

Five national champion banners hanging in Cameron Indoor Stadium

A Coach for All

Coach K’s legacy extends well beyond the court. His ability to build and motivate teams, stay nimble amid change, and never lose sight of the people who make success possible, set an example for the Duke community. Read more about Coach K’s impact on Duke during his time on campus.