Coach K apologizes for yelling at Duke fans

Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski apologized for directing his anger at his team's fans following Tuesday's 79-67 win over Pittsburgh.

The legendary bench boss aired out his frustrations toward the Cameron Crazies prior to halftime, telling them to "shut up" after the student section was heard chanting, "Jeff Capel, sit with us" at the Panthers head coach at Duke alumnus.

Capel was a four-year starter at Duke from 1993 to 1997. He then worked on the Blue Devils' coaching staff for seven seasons, serving as an associate head coach for four of those campaigns.

Krzyzewski blamed his reaction on mishearing what was said but questioned the timing of the chant, insisting the first half of an ACC game isn't the time for "some cutesy little thing."

"We got a different look at what the hell was going on. I thought it was something personal. ... I apologize to the students for that," Krzyzewski told ESPN postgame, adding, "I'd rather make the mistake and protect my guy."

The 72-year-old then encouraged Duke fans to think of more team-centric cheers going forward:

Vernon Carey Jr. finished with 26 points and 13 rebounds to help the ninth-ranked Blue Devils improve to 17-3.