Coach K celebrates MLK day by touching DeMarcus Nelson

Duke Coach Mike Krzyzewski followed-up on his promise to celebrate Martin Luther King Day by lightly brushing the shoulder of forward DeMarcus Nelson.

"I wanted to do something symbolic," Krzyzewski said. "I wanted DeMarcus to know that he means something to me and that I am glad that I bought, or, recruited him. I wish he would start getting back in transition after missed shots and be a little more aggressive on the boards, but tomorrow's a new day."

Nelson, a senior from California, had to keep his emotions in check while speaking to the media on Monday night.

"It just means so much coming from a guy like him," Nelson said, fighting back tears. "You see him grabbing and hugging guys like Greg (Paulus) and Jon (Scheyer), but for him to graze me like that, it is just impossible to describe."

ESPN, long considered Duke's unofficial adversary, was quick to recognize the gesture.

Mike Patrick, an announcer for the network, also spoke to the press Monday night.

"I am just so touched by this whole situation," Patrick said from his bedroom in the press box of Cameron Indoor Stadium. "Coach K, again, is leading the way for white coaches everywhere. I just admire him so much."

Krzyzewski, who was seen violently washing his hands after the act, made certain to explain himself.

"I don't want people to think that I've gone soft or anything," Krzyzewski said. "If DeMarcus wants a hug from me, he better start hitting big shots when we need them."