I completely respect Phil Jackson and everything he’s been able to accomplish in his career. Anyone that can win 9 rings and can put himself in a position to win his 10th knows what he’s doing. Some people can say that he’s had it easy because he’s won with guys like MJ, Shaq and Kobe—but hey, at least he won. How many coaches have had the most talent but weren’t able to win? Sometimes I think Jackson might be the most underrated 9-time champion of all time.
Really, he deserves more credit than he receives. He’s led his teams to 3-peats THREE separate times. Go back and read that again… one coach has lead his team to a 3-peat; on three occasions in his career. Are you kidding me? Even though Pat Riley has the trademark on the term 3-PEAT, its Phil Jackson that really owns it. He knows what he’s doing—we really shouldn’t second guess him.
Watching Game 2, there was a very questionable decision that came to the forefront. Again, I want to emphasize that I respect Jackson and what he’s been able to accomplish. But looking at him on Sunday night, a couple of us have a very important question to ask: What the hell was he thinking by shaving off the mustache/goatee? No single act has made anyone look as old as Jackson’s move away from facial hair. It seems like he went from a cool older guy to just an old guy. It’s a subtle difference—but an significant one. Check it out for yourself. Here’s a before photo:
And the “After” version:
Come on Phil, you’re better than that. Who cares if the facial hair makes you look like the Colonel from KFC? Dude, it got you 9 rings—you don’t screw with that kind of success? Oh, by the way– it got you this too. Again, please don’t mess with success….
This might be as impressive as any of his 9 NBA Championships
