Childhood and Education Journey of Phil Jackson in Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Phil Jackson. From birth to education, explore key events.

Phil Jackson is a highly decorated former NBA player and coach. He won two NBA championships as a player and a record-breaking 11 as a head coach. Known for his unique coaching style incorporating mindfulness and Eastern philosophies, Jackson led the Chicago Bulls to six championships (two three-peats) and the Los Angeles Lakers to five. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007 and named one of the 10 greatest coaches in NBA history in 1996. His 229 postseason wins and 13 conference titles further cement his legacy as one of the sport's most successful figures.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

September 17, 1945: Philip Douglas Jackson Born

On September 17, 1945, Philip Douglas Jackson, later known as a prominent basketball player, coach, and executive in the NBA, was born.

Others born on this day/year

1962: Bill Fitch Recruits Jackson

In the spring of 1962, Bill Fitch, who was previously a baseball scout, took over as head basketball coach at the University of North Dakota and recruited Phil Jackson during Jackson's junior year of high school.

1965: NCAA Division II Tournament Appearance

In 1965, Phil Jackson and the North Dakota Fighting Sioux finished third in the NCAA Division II tournament, losing to the Southern Illinois Salukis, who were led by Walt Frazier.

1966: Another NCAA Division II Tournament Appearance

In 1966, Phil Jackson and the North Dakota Fighting Sioux finished fourth in the NCAA Division II tournament, again being defeated by the Southern Illinois Salukis.

1969: Spinal Fusion Surgery

In 1969, Phil Jackson underwent spinal fusion surgery.

1990: Jackson Describes Religious Views

In a 1990 interview with the Chicago Tribune, Phil Jackson shared his religious views, describing them as a combination of pantheistic, deistic, and American Indian beliefs.

2003: Lakers sign veterans Karl Malone and Gary Payton

Prior to the 2003-04 season, the Lakers signed NBA star veterans Karl Malone and Gary Payton, who had been franchise players for the Utah Jazz and the Seattle SuperSonics, respectively.

2010: Jackson's Views on Marijuana Legalization

In 2010, Phil Jackson expressed his belief that people should not be imprisoned for marijuana offenses but criticized California's Proposition 19, which aimed to legalize marijuana, as poorly written.

March 2011: Jackson Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer

In March 2011, Phil Jackson was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He informed the Lakers players in May and delayed his surgery until after the playoffs.