Phil Jackson

Phil Jackson coached in the National Basketball League for twenty-one years. Within this time he accumulated eleven NBA titles, six with the Chicago Bulls and five with Los Angeles Lakers. He has been referred to as a new age coach with the nickname of “Zen Master”. His unique unorthodox method although not popular in the sporting world was obviously very effective for him. Not only was he a fan favourite but his relationship with his player’s appeared to be impeccable. Due to Jackson’s American Indian philosophy he had a tendency to leave his athletes on the court during troubled situations with no time outs or shouting from him. This is part of what fans loved about him. He had faith in his players and allowed them to resolve difficulties without his assistance. Some may argue that his success is attributed to star players such as Michael Jordan but it is my belief that his great trust, patience and transfer of independence and responsibility to his players assisted them in reaching their potential. It would be difficult to find another coach who practices the same philosophies as Jackson and this is precisely why he has been regarded as one of the greatest most decorated coaches of all time. Phil Jackson was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2007 and retired in 2011.