Phil Jackson is the best basketball coach available, but he may not have interest in coaching again.
Jackson turned down the Brooklyn Nets, who were interested in having him replace PJ Carlesimo as the team’s head coach. The outcome is no surprise; we didn’t figure he would be interested in coaching the Nets. But what’s interesting is that TNT’s David Aldridge says a source told him Jackson is “done with coaching.” Aldridge’s source says Jackson continues to see an executive job where they would have full control over basketball operations.
Jackson has signed on with teams to serve as a consultant. The Detroit Pistons hired him to help them select their new head coach. He reportedly was also trying to assume a similar role with UCLA when the Bruins were looking for a new basketball coach. There was even talk that the Toronto Raptors were trying to make Jackson their next president.
It seems to me that Jackson’s agent is making sure his client’s name is constantly mentioned in order to keep his leverage high. Sure, any time a coaching opening comes up, teams looking to make a splash will inquire about his interest, but it seems like Phil is also making himself available to talk with teams.
I wouldn’t completely close the door on Jackson coaching again. If the right opportunity came up — one where he could win a championship — I bet he would be interested. I’m just guessing that sort of opportunity is unlikely to emerge, which is why he’s looking for a front office job that suits him.
