Wednesday night’s trip to Charlottesville was Duke men’s basketball head coach Mike Krzyzewski’s final game in John Paul Jones Arena. With the stands packed with orange-clad fans, Virginia’s Tony Bennett took to the microphone at mid-court prior to the national anthem and lineups to thank Coach K for his contributions to the game, the conference and wish him well in retirement.
Bennett also presented him with a plaque to commemorate the occasion.
The long-time coach hasn’t gotten a warm welcome at every stop, notably receiving boos and some choice swear words in his final game at rival UNC.
This is the final season for Krzyzewski after over 40 years with the Blue Devils, and his No. 7 Duke squad is trying to send him out with his sixth NCAA title.
Tony Bennett takes the mic before tipoff here, to thank Coach K for his "monumental contributions" to the game of basketball. Shouts out Mickie, too, and then honors K with a plaque.
"I hope you guys have a blessed retirement."
— Brendan Marks (@BrendanRMarks) February 23, 2022
Tony Bennett on PA to honor Coach K. All class. #UVA
— David Teel (@ByDavidTeel) February 23, 2022
Pure Class 👏
Tony Bennett and @UVAMensHoops honor Coach K @DukeMBB pic.twitter.com/IFsvHfS6cx
— ACC Network (@accnetwork) February 24, 2022
What a wonderfully classy moment!
