"Duke lost another one of its greatest treasures" — Coach K shares his reaction to legendary broadcaster Bob Harris' death

Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski shared sadness over the death of Hall of Fame broadcaster Bob Harris. The "Voice of the Blue Devils" passed on Wednesday, and Coach K said that Duke lost one of its "greatest treasures."

Duke announced Harris' death on Wednesday morning. He died at the age of 81. Harris served Duke as the radio play-by-play man for 41 years and retired in 2017. Coach K issued a statement following his death:

"Duke lost another one of its greatest treasures with the passing of Bob Harris. For decades as our radio play-by-play broadcaster, Bob told the story of Duke Athletics better than anyone. He was much more than an announcer to all of us. He was a family member who absolutely loved Duke and everything it stands for."

Krzyzewski shared how widely respected Harris was and that he felt privileged to be friends with the broadcaster:

"We are so thankful that it was his voice that shared our journey each season with so many Duke fans around the world. He was adored by so many of them. The Krzyzewski family offers our deepest condolences to Phyllis and their loved ones. It was my honor to call Bob my friend."

In his illustrious 41-year broadcasting career, Harris called 1,300 Duke basketball games and all five national championships.

Bob Harris is in Duke Athletics and the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame. He was awarded North Carolina Broadcaster of the Year thrice.

Bob Harris' battle with Alzheimer's disease

Bob Harris had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Former radio analyst Wes Chesson had opened a GoFundMe page to raise donations for his treatment.

Chesson had raised $101,000 since early 2023. He posted news of the famed broadcaster's death on the page. He shared that Harris' wife Phyllis was by his side holding his hand at the time of death.

​