Phil Jackson

Phil Jackson has transitioned from a successful NBA player to a legendary coach and executive, known for leading multiple championship teams and his unique leadership philosophy. After being drafted by the New York Knicks in the second round of the 1967 NBA draft, Phil Jackson went on to secure two NBA championships as a player with the team, first in 1970 (despite not playing due to spinal fusion surgery that season) and again in 1973. Following several seasons with the Knicks and two with the New Jersey Nets, Jackson retired as a player in 1980. He then transitioned into coaching, beginning his career in professional leagues such as the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and Puerto Rico’s National Superior Basketball (BSN).

His transformative impact on the sport was formally recognized with his induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007. Further demonstrating his multifaceted contributions to the NBA, Jackson served as president of the New York Knicks from 2014 to 2017. Throughout his illustrious career, Phil Jackson has amassed a total of 13 NBA championships, two as a player and eleven as a head coach, making him one of the most successful figures in professional basketball history.