Coach K may have commited a Recruiting Violation

Duke’s head men’s basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski has been a head coach for over 30 years, and in that time he has not been cited for any recruiting violations. That may be until now. You would think by now Coach K would know all the rules but apparently not.

While playing in an AAU tournament in Orlando, Florida Alex Poythress told CBSSports.com that Coach K had spoken to him during the week and had offered him a scholarship. Problem is NCAA rules don’t allow coaches to contact recruits when they are still playing in a tournament.

This is the rule that Coach K might have broken. (Thanks to the NABC)

One telephone call in July [Bylaw 13.1.3.1.3]):

During the month of July, Division I coaches are allowed one telephone call to a prospect (or his parents or legal guardians) who have completed his sophomore or junior year, but the call cannot be made while the prospect is participating in certified events. [Note: Please see the definition of “during a certified event” for guidance on the duration of the prohibition.]

Poythress is a 6’7” forward from Clarksville, Tenn. Scout.com ranks him as the 15 best player in the class of 2012, and the 4th best small forward.

Jon Jackson, a Duke spokesman said in a statement released Saturday that Duke is gathering facts and that, “proper adherence to the NCAA bylaws has always been, and will continue to be, a cornerstone of Duke Athletics.”

If this is indeed true this would only be a minor or secondary recruiting violation, nothing major. Duke would probably only receive a slap on the wrist if that.

Tags: Duke