Chris Duhon has enjoyed one of the most remarkable basketball journeys of his generation. Born and raised in Louisiana, Duhon quickly developed a love for the game and emerged as one of the nation’s premier point guards. Entering his senior year of high school, he was regarded as a top national prospect, earned Mr. Basketball honors in Louisiana, and was selected to the prestigious McDonald’s All-American Game.
Duhon committed to Duke University and played for legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski from 2000 to 2004. Arriving in Durham as a rotational guard, an early-season injury to Carlos Boozer opened the door for Duhon to step into the starting lineup. His tenacious on-ball defense, poise, and elite playmaking ability allowed Coach K to shift Jason Williams to shooting guard— a move that ultimately helped Duke capture the 2001 NCAA National Championship, one of Duhon’s greatest memories and accomplishments.
Throughout his collegiate career, Duhon helped lead Duke to the Sweet 16 as a junior, the Final Four as a senior, and compiled one of the most complete résumés in program history. He left Duke as the school’s all-time leader in steals (300) and minutes played, and finished second in assists (819). He also became the only player in ACC history to record at least 1,200 points, 800 assists, 475 rebounds, 300 steals, and 125 made threes. During his time at Duke, the Blue Devils amassed a staggering 123–21 record, making him the second-winningest player in ACC history behind teammate Shane Battier.
Duhon’s success at Duke led to an NBA opportunity, and he was drafted 38th overall by the Chicago Bulls in 2004. He went on to play for the Bulls (2004–2008), New York Knicks (2008–2010), Orlando Magic (2010–2012), and Los Angeles Lakers (2012–2013). After retiring from the NBA, he transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant under Dan D’Antoni at Marshall University.
Charlotte Becomes Home
When Duhon chose Duke, his mother relocated to Durham. Later, during his NBA years, she moved to Charlotte—a city that quickly became the family’s home base. After his collegiate coaching stint, Duhon decided to move to Charlotte to be closer to her and to provide stability for his wife and children. His wife, Andrea, accepted a position as a professor at Davidson College, and the timing aligned perfectly when he was offered an opportunity to join the basketball staff at Gaston Christian School.
For someone who reached the pinnacle of college basketball and competed at the highest level of the sport, coaching at a small NCISAA school might seem unexpected. But for Duhon, it was the perfect chance to give back, mentor young men, and share the lessons that shaped his own career. In 2023, he became the head coach at Gaston Christian, setting out to elevate the program to statewide prominence with an “I’ll play anyone, anytime” approach designed to maximize his players’ visibility.
In his first season, Gaston Christian finished 19–16 and advanced to the state championship game, where they fell to Forsyth Country Day. Last season, they improved to 25–8 and made the state semifinals. This year, they’ve started an impressive 9–0 while playing one of the toughest schedules in North Carolina.
Changing Mindsets
While many might struggle with transitioning from Duke and the NBA to the high school level, Duhon embraced the opportunity. With his wife working at Davidson and his son, Jeremy, enrolled at Lake Norman Christian, the fit made sense on every level. At Jeremy’s urging, Duhon took the role— but with a firm promise: no favoritism, no exceptions. His son would earn his playing time like every other player.
The humility Duhon displays in taking the job reflects the same mindset he once played with— selfless, steady, and grounded.
Coaching Philosophy
Duhon’s coaching philosophy is shaped by the experiences, highs, and challenges of his playing career. He credits much of his growth to Coach K, whose influence is evident in how Gaston Christian plays today: tough, disciplined, defensive-minded, and united.
He emphasizes fundamentals, accountability, and communication. His teams are known for cohesive play, relentless effort, and strong defensive identity. The culture he has built at Gaston Christian mirrors the values he learned at Duke— preparation, discipline, and togetherness.
Lessons From Coach K
When asked about his biggest takeaway from his Duke experience, Duhon summed it up in three words: “Be in the moment.”
Coach K never promised playing time. Every player had to earn trust daily. Duhon learned the importance of focusing on what you can control, maintaining consistency every day, and proving who you are through your work—lessons he now instills in his own players.
“I’m happy where I’m at,” Duhon shared. “I have the opportunity to coach and connect with young men, helping them become great people on and off the court.”
Knowledge on Display
Coach Chris Duhon can flat-out coach. His teams understand how to play the game the right way— defending, sharing the ball, competing, and supporting one another. Watching Gaston Christian play, it’s evident they trust their system, trust their coach, and enjoy playing the game.
Their camaraderie, discipline, and competitive spirit reflect the influence of a coach who has lived the very lessons he now teaches. For Duhon, basketball is no longer just a sport— it’s a platform to build character, empower young men, and give back to the game that gave him so much.