Former Duke All-American Nolan Smith has joined the Blue Devils’ men’s basketball staff as a special assistant, effective immediately, Duke head coachMike Krzyzewski announced Monday.
The Upper Marlboro, Md., native’s duties will include assisting the coaching staff in developing game strategies, breaking down game film, planning practices and contributing in staff meetings.
“This is a terrific addition to the Duke basketball staff,” Krzyzewski said. “Nolan Smith is a true champion and a consummate example of the type of young man we strive to have in our program. It’s exciting to be part of his journey toward becoming a coach, and we’re so proud to have him on our staff.”
A consensus first-team All-American and the ACC Player of the Year in 2011, Smith helped lead Duke to three consecutive ACC championships and the 2010 NCAA title during his tenure as a student-athlete. He was also a two-time All-ACC selection and earned ACC Tournament MVP honors as a senior in 2011.
Smith currently ranks 17th on Duke’s career scoring chart, having amassed 1,911 points in his four seasons. He played in 121 victories in a Duke uniform to rank fifth in program history and his 143 games played are tied for the seventh-most in Duke annals.
“I’m excited to be joining the Duke men’s basketball staff,” Smith said. “This transition has been natural for me, as it combines my love for basketball and understanding of the game with my passion for mentoring student-athletes. The opportunity to start my coaching career and learn from Coach K is something I couldn’t pass up. As a member of the coaching staff, Duke fans will see the same passion I brought to the program as a player for four years.”
Following his graduation from Duke in 2011, Smith was selected by Portland with the 21st overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft.
Photo Courtesy Duke Athletics
