By Mark Bergin, WRAL senior multiplatform producer

Legendary Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski has been named the 2025 Naismith Outstanding Contributor to Men’s Basketball Award for his lifelong contributions to the sport, as announced Tuesday by the Atlanta Tipoff Club.

The ATOC’s Board of Directors chose Krzyzewski and former Notre Dame women’s basketball coach Muffet McGraw for the 2025 Naismith Outstanding Contributor to Women’s Basketball Award.

“Certainly, it is a tremendous honor to be recognized in this way by the Atlanta Tipoff Club,” Krzyzewski said in a university-issued release. “In looking at the previous winners of the Naismith Outstanding Contributor award, I am humbled to be among those who’ve impacted the sport of basketball in such a meaningful way.

“College basketball is so special, and the game gave me much more than I gave it. I am truly grateful to be named the 2025 Naismith Outstanding Contributor to Men’s Basketball.”

Krzyzewski and McGraw will be honored during the 2025 college basketball season.

First awarded in 1982, the Naismith Outstanding Contributor to Basketball Award is given each year to those whose exceptional efforts have created a lasting, positive influence on the game. The recipients exemplify character, integrity and dignity and make substantial contributions to the growth and sustainability of basketball.

“Every year, we choose individuals who have made a profound impact on players and fans alike, truly embodying the spirit of basketball,” said Eric Oberman, president of the Atlanta Tipoff Club. “It’s a privilege to honor these remarkable figures who dedicated their lives to fostering and advancing the game. Winning a Naismith Coach of the Year award is incredible, but being recognized later for your lasting contributions is exceptional.”

Krzyzewski finished his career with a 1,202-368 record as head coach at Duke and Army.

In his 42 seasons at Duke, the 2001 Naismith Hall of Fame coach amassed a 1,129-309 mark, leading the Blue Devils to five national titles, 13 Final Fours, 15 Atlantic Coast Conference tournament championships and 13 Atlantic Coast Conference regular season titles. His 13 Final Four appearances are the most of any Division I men’s basketball coach.

Krzyzewski retired in 2022 after Duke lost in the Final Four to rival North Carolina.

Source: wralsportsfan.com