The speculation of whether or not Phil Jackson will return to the sideline is never ending. Though he has said several times that he is done, it never really seems to resonate with anyone. After the Lakers chose D’Antoni over the Zen Master (I know still shocking), Jackson has reiterated even more that that part of his life is over. Read more after the jump.
Whether the desire is gone or his body just can’t handle the toll of the 82-game schedule, Jackson seems content with retirement.
Jackson attended a class reunion this weekend in Williston, North Dakota, and spent some time with the local media there. And he reiterated once more that his coaching days are through.
From Mark Jones of the Williston Herald (via HoopsHype):
Williston High School graduate Phil Jackson was in town this weekend for his 50th high school class reunion as well as to speak at the Banquet of Champions for the 13-year-old Babe Ruth World Series.
During the press conference, Jackson made it clear he has no intentions of returning to coach.
“I have no intention of coaching,” he said. “I am still recovering from multiple surgeries.”
Jackson is currently experiencing back problems, which require him to use a walking cane.
His fiancee Jeanie Buss recently told ESPN in an interview that he advises her and she didn’t feel like he was done with coaching yet. We also don’t know who the Lakers will have after next year’s free agency. Only time will tell but for now Jackson is ruling it out.
