Paolo Banchero Reveals the Lasting Lesson He Took from Coach K at Duke

Paolo Banchero Reveals the Lasting Lesson He Took from Coach K at Duke

When Paolo Banchero arrived at Duke for the 2021–22 season, he joined one of college basketball’s most legendary programs during a historic moment Mike Krzyzewski’s final year as head coach. In just under a year together, the Hall of Famer left a deep imprint on Banchero, both on and off the court. Now a rising NBA star, Banchero recently opened up on The Pivot Podcast about the most important lesson he took from his time under Coach K.

“He taught me more in those nine to 10 months than any coach has taught me in my life,” Banchero said.
“One thing he always stressed, especially to me, was having a strong presence and a strong face, as he would say.”

The Power of Presence

For Krzyzewski, it wasn’t just about Xs and Os or game prep. It was about mindset, poise, and leadership qualities that transcend basketball.

“You don’t want to show any forms of weakness. You don’t want to show fatigue. You don’t want to show frustration, sadness,” Banchero explained.
“You want to look strong in everything you do.”

At 18 years old, Banchero admits he didn’t fully grasp the depth of that message. But now, as a franchise cornerstone for the Orlando Magic, he’s learned just how important those words were.

The Professional Wake-Up Call

Banchero’s rise has been rapid: from ACC Rookie of the Year and All-ACC First Team honors at Duke to No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. But with the spotlight and pressure of the NBA came a new level of scrutiny—and suddenly, Coach K’s lesson clicked.

“Since I’ve left, I’ve seen exactly what he means… You’re being looked at as an investment. They’re going to pay you millions of dollars to represent their franchise,” Banchero said.

“As a leader of a team, you don’t want to be a head case… I think [Coach K] was preparing me for what comes with that and how I would have to handle myself.”

A Star in the Making

Banchero’s maturity has translated into immediate success. He was named an NBA All-Star in 2024, and many believed he would’ve repeated the honor this past season if not for a lingering oblique injury. Through it all, the values instilled by Krzyzewski have helped shape his identity not just as a player, but as a leader.

“He knew I wanted to be the No. 1 pick. He knew I wanted to be a star in the NBA,” Banchero said. “And so, I think he was preparing me for what comes with that.”

Coach K’s Lasting Impact

While Mike Krzyzewski’s retirement marked the end of an era in Durham, his impact continues to resonate through players like Banchero players who now carry his lessons into the NBA and beyond. For Banchero, the strength, presence, and professionalism Coach K demanded are now part of his daily routine as he looks to build a lasting legacy of his own.

And if his trajectory so far is any indication, the lessons from Duke’s legendary leader will continue to pay dividends for years to come.