Everything Is Still OK for Coach K

Duke was disappointed, even somewhat dazed in defeat, but no Blue Devil would say the season was ruined by the failure to win the championship many had seemingly conceded them.

“I’m really proud of my team,” Coach Mike Krzyzewski said. “I really love these guys. I have a hard time being sad. I’m sorry, I don’t coach for winning. I coach for relationships.

“I got the best. I mean, we won a lot because of that.

“These kids have been an amazing group of kids and have had a sensational year. And I thank them for taking us along.”

He really does.

Asked what Krzyzewski told his team immediately after the championship loss, reserve forward Corey Maggette said:

“He thanked us for all the good times we’ve had.”

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Duke had its lowest-scoring game of the season--68 points--in the semifinals against Michigan State and then its worst-shooting game--41.1%--in the title game against Connecticut.