Mike Krzyzewski could have left international basketball on top, having returned the United States to its longtime position as the world’s best.

“It was very easy to walk away, but I just don’t think people who are accustomed to competing or high achievers walk away,” USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo said. “You just keep competing.”

So that’s what Krzyzewski plans, right on through the 2012 Olympics.

USA Basketball announced Tuesday that Krzyzewski will return to lead the United States in next summer’s world championships and when it defends its gold medal in London.