Obama meets with NCAA champion Duke Blue Devils
President Obama brought the Duke University Blue Devils to the White House Tuesday to congratulate them on their fifth NCAA championship. He recognized Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski and the Duke team for their 2014-2015 national title win over the University of Wisconsin, 68-63.
"I can relate to this program. Does well in the classroom. Won twice in the past four years. Know what it's like for people to oppose you no matter what you try to do," Obama said.
The president called Krzyzewski, who has won more than 1,000 games, an "up-and-coming coach."
"Somehow he did it without ever saying a bad word to a referee," Obama said.
"It's true. It's true," Krzyzewski said. "Only what they deserve."
"That's what I say about some of my opponents," Obama replied.
The president also recognized individual players for their contributions on the court, in the classroom and in the community.
Coach Krzyzewski spoke briefly, inviting Mr. Obama to a Blue Devils game once he leaves office, and the team presented the president with a #1 jersey with "Obama" emblazoned on the back, a signed basketball and a scholarship to Duke's fantasy basketball camp.