On April 14, 2025, Mike Krzyzewski, renowned as “Coach K,” spoke at UIC’s Chair Chats, sharing insights from his remarkable journey. With the most NCAA Division I wins in men’s college basketball and three Olympic gold medals, Krzyzewski credits much of his success to his mother’s unwavering support and the tough upbringing in Chicago’s Ukrainian Village.
During the talk, he reflected on the values instilled in him by his Polish immigrant parents, emphasizing hard work and education. Coach K highlighted his leadership philosophy, advocating for adherence to standards rather than rules, fostering accountability among team members.
Krzyzewski also shared his mother’s impactful advice about choosing the right friends, illustrating this with a metaphor about driving one’s own bus. Students resonated with his messages on personal excellence and resilience, making the Chair Chats series a valuable experience for those looking to apply these life lessons beyond the court.
