Coach K ‘proud’ of Chicago for cheering Thibs

4:27 PM ET

CHICAGO — For the first time since being fired by the Chicago Bulls last summer, Tom Thibodeau received a big ovation Friday night as he made his return with Team USA.

Thibodeau, who led the Bulls to a 255-139 regular season record over five seasons, is an assistant coach on Mike Krzyzewski’s staff. Krzyzewski, a Chicago native was pleased to see Thibodeau being so warmly received.

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“He’s the best as far as preparation and a team player and the fans appreciate it,” Krzyzewski said after Team USA’s 80-45 exhibition win over Venezuela on Friday night. “[The reaction] was great. I love the fact that my town gave the guy who gave them his heart and soul for the number of years he’s been here and acknowledged that. That’s a great, great thing. I’m proud of my city for doing that.”

Chicago Bulls All-Star and Team USA swingman Jimmy Butler was sitting next to Krzyzewski on the dais after the game.

Krzyzewski felt bad that his long answer about Thibodeau had not allowed Butler, who grew into one of the best two-way players in the game under Thibodeau.

“It’s ok,” Butler said smiling. “You got it. You said everything I would have said.”

Team USA men’s basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski (right) overseeing practice with assistant coach Tom Thibodeau, who coached the Chicago Bulls for five …

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