Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski is set to undergo back surgery to remove a fragment of a herniated disc on Friday, the program announced on Monday morning.
In his absence, associate head coach Jeff Capel will take over coaching duties.
According to the press release, the procedure will be performed by Dr. Allan Friedman at Duke University Hospital.
“Dr. William Richardson, Dr. Friedman, and our medical team have worked tirelessly to help manage this issue for several weeks,” said Krzyzewski in a statement on the team’s official website.
“Together, we have determined that surgery is the best course of action at this time. During my recovery process, the team will be in the capable hands of Coach Capel, Coach James and Coach Scheyer. As soon as the doctors clear me to do so, I look forward to returning and giving our team 100% of my energy and attention, which is certainly something that they deserve.”
Coach K’s recovery is expected to take around four weeks.
“To be sure, the entire Duke community is supportive and eager to get Mike back as soon as possible,” said Duke Vice President and Director of Athletics Kevin White. “His health is paramount, and he will get the best possible care in the world by the Duke medical team. With the proper recovery time, we look forward to Mike doing what he does best – leading and teaching — very soon.”
Capel will coach the team beginning Jan. 7 against Boston College at Cameron Indoor Stadium.
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Duke basketball: Mike Krzyzewski to undergo back surgery
