Chris Spatola, ESPN analyst and Krzyzewski son-in-law, dies at 47

Chris Spatola, ESPN college basketball analyst and former Duke staffer, died Monday, Sept. 21, 2026, at age 47. Duke and his family confirmed the death; ESPN PR posted a statement. He was married to Jamie Krzyzewski, daughter of former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, and they had three children. Born Jan. 7, 1979, he was a four-year starter at Army from 1998 to 2002, appearing in 111 games and ranking fourth all-time there in three-pointers. He served as a U.S. Army officer from 2002 to 2007, including as a company commander, and received the Joint Service Commendation Medal for combat performance during Operation Iraqi Freedom. From 2007 to 2012 he was on Krzyzewski's Duke staff as an assistant and director of basketball operations, including the 2010 national championship. He joined ESPN in 2015, also worked SiriusXM, and contributed to USA Basketball gold-medal teams in 2008 and 2010. ESPN said he brought a unique perspective as a student-athlete, veteran, coach and broadcaster. Rece Davis, Andy Katz and Seth Davis posted tributes. Circumstances of the death have not been disclosed.