Childhood and Education Journey of Phil Jackson in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 25, 2026

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

Phil Jackson is a highly successful American former NBA player and coach, renowned for his record-breaking 11 NBA championships as a head coach. He won two championships as a player. Inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007, Jackson is celebrated as one of the 10 greatest coaches in NBA history (1996). He also holds records for most postseason wins (229) and conference titles (13).

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 was born. He would later become a professional basketball player, coach, and executive in the NBA.

Others born on this day/year

1962: Bill Fitch becomes Head Basketball Coach at University of North Dakota

In the spring of 1962, Bill Fitch took over as head basketball coach at the University of North Dakota during Phil Jackson's junior year of high school. Fitch had been scouting for the Milwaukee Braves.

1965: Fighting Sioux faced the Southern Illinois Salukis

In 1965, Phil Jackson's North Dakota Fighting Sioux were beaten by the Southern Illinois Salukis in the NCAA Division II tournament. Walt Frazier, Jackson's future Knicks teammate, starred for the Salukis.

1966: Another Loss to Southern Illinois Salukis

In 1966, Phil Jackson's North Dakota Fighting Sioux were once again beaten by the Southern Illinois Salukis in the NCAA Division II tournament. Walt Frazier did not play that year.

1969: Spinal Fusion Surgery

In 1969, Phil Jackson underwent spinal fusion surgery and did not play during New York's 1969-70 championship season.

1970: Authored "Take It All"

In 1970, despite not playing due to surgery, Phil Jackson authored a book entitled "Take It All", which documented the Knicks' 1970 championship run.

December 27, 2016: Jackson and Buss End Engagement

On December 27, 2016, Phil Jackson and Jeanie Buss announced the termination of their engagement in a joint statement on Twitter.

April 2023: Jackson States He No Longer Watches NBA

In April 2023, Phil Jackson stated that he no longer watches the NBA due to it becoming too political, expressing a desire for sports to remain non-political.