ESPN College Basketball Analyst Chris Spatola Dies at 47
Former Army star and Duke assistant coach Chris Spatola, who worked as an ESPN analyst, died at age 47.
ESPN announced on Tuesday that its college basketball analyst Chris Spatola died at 47. Spatola was a four-year starter for the Army Black Knights, finishing his collegiate career with 1,543 points, placing him among the academy’s top ten all-time scorers. After graduating, he served five years on active duty, including a deployment for Operation Iraqi Freedom, and earned both the Joint Service Commendation Medal and the Army Commendation Medal.
Following his military service, Spatola joined the coaching staff of Duke University under Hall of Fame coach Mike Krzyzewski, his father-in-law, from 2007 to 2012. During that tenure the Blue Devils captured the 2010 NCAA men’s basketball championship. He later transitioned to broadcasting, providing analysis for ESPN’s college basketball coverage.
"Chris Spatola brought a unique perspective to ESPN's college basketball coverage, shaped by his experiences as a student-athlete, Army veteran, coach and broadcaster," ESPN said in a statement.
"He was thoughtful, prepared and passionate about the sport, earning the respect of colleagues, coaches, players and fans alike," the network added.
Spatola’s death was reported without further details on the cause.