Is Michael Jordan Truly the NBA's Greatest? Phil Jackson Shares Insights on Basketball Legends

On June 14, 1998, Michael Jordan, guided by Chicago Bulls' head coach Phil Jackson, secured their sixth NBA championship together.

What builds an NBA icon? This is the exploration that seasoned coach Phil Jackson embarks on in his latest co-authored work with sports journalist Sam Smith. The book chronicles the towering figures who've left indelible marks on basketball, prominently featuring the unparalleled accomplishments of Michael Jordan, coached by Jackson to half a dozen NBA titles.

"Michael's resilience was something everyone respected," Jackson notes. "Even when faced with tough physical play, he was determined and relentless, especially during the grueling schedule of that era, playing with indefatigable energy, as if every match was his first."

Smith comments that succeeding in the NBA hinges on more than just physical prowess. Standing at seven foot one, was a force of nature who might have claimed the title of history's greatest player. Yet, Smith reflects, Kobe Bryant approached the game with more gravity.

"Kobe's dedication arose from necessity; he wasn’t endowed with Jordan's extraordinary physical gifts," Smith explains. "Unable to hold the ball like a magician, Kobe compensated with relentless training — morning to night, he was perfecting his craft wherever he could."

Insights from the Interview

Masters of the Game, by Phil Jackson and Sam Smith, dives into what defines legends in basketball.

Reaching for goals places individuals on a unique pedestal—either seeking help or striving for influence without encumbrances is key, Jackson suggests, a strategy he considered essential as a guiding force for his players.

The loyalty and efficacy of Jackson's mentorship drew players to his leadership. "Players look for credibility in a coach and expertise that accelerates their growth," argued Smith. This trust was also a testament to the successful ethos of Jackson's teams.

Though always supportive, Jackson avoided personal criticism. "Basketball was open for critique, but players' personal lives were off-limits," he affirms, a principle he adheres to even with Michael, whose success speaks for itself.

What really drove Michael was challenge, Jackson recounts. Be it missed free throws or game setbacks, Michael relished turning doubts into showcases of talent—a hallmark trait he shared with many elite athletes.

Kobe, though often compared to Michael, sought his own identity. He absorbed Jordan's moves from games and videos long before he reached the NBA, becoming his generation's fierce competitor.

When Kobe first joined the professional ranks under Jackson, balancing the team dynamic was paramount. Jackson initially assigned Bryant as a lead guard, vital to team strategies but not always fulfilling Kobe's expansionist aspirations until he'd earned a role like Jordan's, with broader responsibilities.

Kobe's ambition to lead was undeniable, yet developing social harmony within the team was just as crucial, Jackson advised. Kobe's single-minded focus on basketball contrasted with his peers' varied interests outside the court.

To nurture his growth further, Jackson introduced Kobe to literature, encouraging leadership skills relevant to his anticipated duties, which Kobe embraced and grew into effectively.

Reminiscing about shared experiences, Jackson recalls conversations about Kobe's life, his family, and the logistical simplicity helicopter use introduced to his demanding schedule. Though his end was tragic, Kobe's legacy continues to inspire with his examples of dedication and competitive spirit driving new talents.

Dennis Rodman exemplified teamwork in all its grit, Jackson admired. Though not a prominent scorer, his selfless work ethic and camaraderie on the basketball court earned widespread respect.

Jackson's career is marked by storied affiliations with NBA greats—both players and fellow coaches—who shared, and often elevated, his dedication to teamwork, selflessness, and high-level competition, defining his career as a truly remarkable journey.