The biggest rivalry game in all of sports. Eight miles apart. Integrity, perseverance and respect is what solidifies this game. Never fearing your opponent, but having respect for your opponent is what makes this matchup second to none.
Saturday February 5, 2022 marks the last time Mike Krzyzewski will coach his team inside of the Dean Smith Center.
If you remember back in 2015 – Senior night – UNC honored Coach K for passing the 1,000 win mark. The recognition took place at the Smith Center where Duke defeated UNC – adding fuel to the fire. Rumor was some Tar Heel alumni and fans did not like the gesture, bringing the topic back to Saturday’s matchup in Chapel Hill. Should North Carolina honor Mike Krzyzewski’s retirement and last game inside the Dean Smith center?
This will be Coach K’s last ride in Chapel Hill and its been reported by several outlets that UNC does not have plans to honor Krzyzewski’s illustrious 40-plus year career.
No plans to honor a man who has been the face of college basketball for over four decades? A coach who has stood for diversity and inclusion. A coach and veteran who has represented the ACC – historically the pinnacle of college basketball.
Regardless of a ceremony, or lack thereof, Mike Krzyzewski would probably tell you he would rather have another quad-one win heading into Selection Sunday on Duke’s resume than a plaque.