From Army to ESPN, Chris Spatola was a 'total badass' who never stopped winning people over

That's how ESPN college basketball analyst Jay Bilas remembers Chris Spatola.

Spatola, who died unexpectedly Sept. 21 at age 47 , built a remarkable life that stretched far beyond the basketball court. He was an Army standout , a U.S. Army veteran, a respected broadcaster for ESPN and SiriusXM, and the son-in-law of legendary Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski.

News of his death has left the college basketball world reeling. Friends, colleagues and former teammates have flooded social media with stories of his generosity, humility and competitive spirit.