Wow this is a pretty big revelation and explains more why Phil Jackson had to leave the Los Angeles Lakers. In 2011 during the Lakers playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks, Jackson revealed to the team that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Read more after the jump.
The Dallas Mavericks were overpowering the Lakers and trying to motivate his team, Jackson shared some pretty big news.
Part of Jackson’s book “11 Rings” that comes out in May,was reported by Kevin Ding of the Orange County Register.
Jackson was diagnosed with prostate cancer in March 2011. After doctors assured him the cancer could be controlled by drugs temporarily, Jackson waited until after the season to undergo surgery.
Jackson decided to divulge his situation to his players when he sensed the team was lacking something in the playoffs.
“Shocking,” Pau Gasol said Saturday, remembering Jackson’s disclosure to the team. “But then you also could understand certain moments of his demeanor, energy and involvement because of what he was going through health-wise. It explained certain things. It was a shock. A difficult moment for the team.”
Unfortunately the news didn’t help motivate the team and the Lakers were swept by the Dallas Mavericks. Jackson later left and recuperated and is now ready to return to the game.
