Author: Monojit Mandal
Phil Jackson, Michael Jordan’s previous coach at the Chicago Bulls, made controversial comments about the NBA’s support for social justice issues. Jackson said he had stopped watching the NBA since the games addressed critical issues, such as social justice messages on the court and on uniforms, in reaction to the murder of George Floyd.
Jalen Rose, a former NBA competitor and current ESPN expert, took Jackson’s statements seriously and reacted. Since Jordan’s heyday, the NBA has been more active in social justice issues, and statements like Jackson’s are no longer allowed by players, coaches and other members of the league.
Rose also expressed his anger at Jackson’s comment about insulting the slogans on the players’ backs while watching the games with his grandchildren. Many players and coaches expressed support for the league’s social justice initiatives, and Jackson’s comments were criticized.
During the podcast, Jackson also noted how some NBA players of his era became senators after retiring from the league, but never let their ideology interfere with their performance on the court.
Jackson is an 11-time NBA champion and is considered one of the best coaches in the league. He is known for pioneering the “Triangle Offence” while coaching the Chicago Bulls and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Jackson began his legendary career as coach of the Chicago Bulls and also of the famous Michael Jordan, with whom he won 6 titles, taking Jordan’s place as one of the greatest players of all time. After taking a year off, Jackson returned to the NBA as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers in 1999, where he was victorious alongside Kobe-Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal.
Fans and commentators are divided over Jackson’s comments regarding the NBA’s loyalty to social compliance initiatives. While some support his attitude, many believe that his statements are out of step with the current axis between the league and society.