“That’s why his number’s retired”: Coach K heaps praise for Bobby Hurley’s immaculate Duke career

Mike Krzyzewski, popular as 'Coach K', met Arizona State coach Bobby Hurley ahead of an exhibition game between the Blue Devils and the Sun Devils. Bobby played four seasons under Krzyzewski at Duke, winning two national championships.

Hurley, in his 11th season as coach at Arizona State, and his team arrived in Durham, North Carolina to take on Duke in a Brotherhood Run charity exhibition match on Sunday.

Before the Sun Devils' Saturday practice at Cameron Indoor Stadium, Hurley took a moment to walk down the sideline to catch up with Coach K. Speaking in front of the media, Krzyzewski heaped praise on his former player.

"Bobby’s one of the greatest players ever in college basketball, not just at Duke, Mike said. "National champion, three final fours, the leader in assists and really one of the courageous players.

"I absolutely loved coaching Bobby. I played point guard, and I coached him like I wish I was him," he added. "He had the most freedom because he was instinctively terrific. When he brought that ball down the damn court, something good was gonna happen ... that's why his number's retired.

Hurley's No.11 jersey was retired by Duke back in 1993 after a storied career. His jersey is one of 13 numbers displayed in the rafters.

Coach K recalls receiving an offer from the Lakers in 2004

Coach K had several opportunities to coach in the NBA over the course of his storied 42-year career at Duke University. However, he always declined the offers to remain at the Blue Devils.

The Boston Celtics, Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Lakers, New Jersey Nets and Minnesota Timberwolves all reportedly made overtures to try and convince Krzyzewski to coach them at various points in time.

Perhaps the most enticing offer came in 2004 from the Lakers, who were looking to replace Phil Jackson.

"I think if I was 57 now and it was offered, I would go," Coach K told ESPN last month. "I still love Duke. College basketball is terrific — the product. All the stuff you have to do for it, it's not as gratifying as it was 20 years ago. At least for me."

Even though Krzyzewski was given a five-year contract worth $40 million, he decided to stay in Durham instead. He led Duke to five NCAA championships along with 13 Final Four appearances. The Blue Devils claimed 15 ACC championships and 13 conference titles in his tenure.