When Mike Krzyzewski celebrated his 70th birthday in 2017, the conversation around Duke basketball shifted from if he would retire to when. But the biggest question on everyone's mind was: who could possibly step into the shoes of a legend who built a dynasty—five national championships, 13 Final Fours, and 28 ACC titles?

The answer came in 2018, when Jon Scheyer was promoted to associate head coach after four years as an assistant. For Coach K, this was no accident—it was the culmination of a carefully crafted succession plan.

"I went to West Point, and I believe in succession," Krzyzewski shared at the Jimmy Rane Foundation Charity Event. "We had a carved-out succession plan where I knew I was going to retire a year in advance. I wanted that coach named that year in advance, and I wanted him working with me so we could have continuity. Obviously, Jon was already working for me, and he was the perfect guy for it. So, we had it well planned out."

The transition has been nothing short of seamless. Under Scheyer, the Blue Devils have already reached the 2025 Final Four, claimed three ACC Tournament titles, and secured two ACC regular-season championships. The only trophy missing is a national title—but with the caliber of talent Scheyer continues to recruit, it feels like only a matter of time.

For Duke fans, it's a masterclass in how to pass the torch: plan ahead, trust your people, and build for lasting success.