Despite Infamous Feud With Bob Knight, Coach K’s Ex-Assistant Remembers Late Legend with Reminiscent Memory

A classic court rivalry resurfaced after coach Bob Knight recently passed away due to illness. The late legend’s loggerheadedness with Coach K became one of highlights of his obituaries. But despite the differences, Mike Krzyzewski‘s assistant coach at the Duke University decided to pour out his heart for the departed, leaving the fans wanting more.

Knight hadn’t been keeping well since April this year when he was hospitalized. His condition made his family and fans deeply concerned before he lost the battle of his life on Wednesday. Among the grievers was a man who had been overcome by grief so much so that he dived into the nostalgia of the 2x Henry Iba Award winner.

What did Jay Bilas say?

Bilas opened up on his memories of Bob Knight in the ESPN’s ‘Get Up’. The clip for the same was posted online as he tried to come to terms with the loss. Behind the ruthless coach was a man who had a sporting astuteness parallel to none, Bilas recalled, leading his team to unimaginable victories. “The reverence was something that was palpable. A compliment from Knight lifted you up to a level you didn’t think you could reach. And then criticism from him was a weight on your shoulders was very very heavy.”

Knight coached the Army Black Knights from 1965-1971 before being the mentor to the Indiana Hoosiers (1971-2000) and lastly stepping foot for the Texas Tech Raiders (2001-2008). The General’s coaching acumen was noteworthy as he popularized motion offense, a technique where players hinge around the court to take advantage of the quickness of the rivals. The Hall of Famer had the highest number of victories in the NCAA at the time of his retirement, leading the Hoosiers to three NCAA titles. 

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Bilas shared a good bond with Bob. He also published an essay reminiscing his time with Knight since they knew each other through ESPN. Bilas was also the assistant coach for the Duke Blue Devils from 1989-1992 under Mike, who was the assistant to Knight at the Indiana for a season in 1974. Knight’s achievements were not only limited to himself.

Who all were Knight’s mentees?

A high number of assistant coaches, players, and managers who have worked with Knight went on to become coaches themselves and have successful careers. The list includes popular coaches namely – Steve Alford, Murry Bartow, Dan Dakich, Bob Donewald, Marty Simmons, Jim Crews, and Chris Beard. His relationship with Coach K however strained later.

Knight’s mentees even catapulted to the NBA and proved to be efficient coaches. Some of them are – Randy Wittman, Mike Woodson, Keith Smart, Isiah Thomas, and Lawrence Frank. 

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Knight’s demise has left many of his mentees in a state of mourning including Bilas overtaken by nostalgia at the moment.