Christopher Michael Spatola

Christopher Michael Spatola was born on January 7, 1979 in Orlando, Florida, and passed away on September 21, 2026.

A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point where he was a standout basketball player, Chris proudly served in the U.S. Army at home and overseas during Operation Iraqi Freedom and rose to the rank of Captain. He later brought his knowledge, leadership, and love of sports to Duke University, where he served as an assistant men's basketball coach before embarking on a career as a college basketball analyst and radio personality. Alongside his wife, Jamie, Chris also founded and led Spatola Basketball Camps, where he made a lasting impact on young people throughout the Durham, NC community. Above all, Chris cherished being a father to his three children.

Chris is survived by his beloved wife, Jamie; his children, John David, Mackenzie, and Madeline; his parents, Mike and Pam Spatola; his brothers, JP Spatola (Amanda) and Greg Spatola (Emily); his sister, Heather Spatola Cummings (Patrick); and many nieces and nephews whom he adored.

A service of remembrance and gratitude will be held in Chris's honor at Duke Chapel on Wednesday, September 30 at 2:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Emily K Center, an organization close to Chris's heart, supporting the educational and career journeys of traditionally underserved students and families in Durham, NC; or TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors), a national nonprofit organization providing compassionate care and comprehensive resources to all those grieving a death in the military or veteran community.