Jackson pays tribute to owner Dolan and Mills.
The New York Knicks have officially unveiled Phil Jackson as their new president of basketball operations, with the former coach looking forward to his new role.
While terms of his deal with the franchise were not disclosed, sources have previously told ESPN that he has agreed to a five-year contract worth $12m per year.
Having won 11 NBA championships as a coach and two as a player while with the Knicks, Jackson insisted that he is committed to delivering a winner and hopes to have the support of the media and fans to create a positive atmosphere around the organisation.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to work with [Knicks owner] Jim Dolan,” said Jackson, as reported by ESPN.
“I have gotten to know Jim and he is totally committed to delivering a winner for New York. I started my career as a Knick, and know what it feels like to win in this great city. I take the task of helping to deliver a winning team to our fans seriously, and look forward to combining my vision of the game with Steve Mills’ abilities as a General Manager.”
Dolan was equally as complimentary as he insisted that “there is only one Phil Jackson”, and he believes that he is the ideal executive to lead the team and build a successful franchise.
Ultimately, the move has been made with the view of Jackson instilling the type of culture that will lead to an NBA championship, but it is expected that he will a few difficult decisions to make this summer.
It is widely reported that current coach Mike Woodson will be let go at the end of the year, opening up the possibility of one of Jackson’s former players to be given the chance to shine as a coach, with Steve Kerr being touted as a potential replacement.
Meanwhile, he will also have to discuss the future with Carmelo Anthony, who is expected to test free agency this summer but has previously revealed that his priority is to stay with the Knicks and he described the appointment of Jackson as a “power move” last week while insisting he would be open to changing his style of play to suit the needs of the team.
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