“He was willing and able to slip into what I asked him to do” – Phil Jackson on why Michael Jordan was easier to coach than Kobe Bryant originally appeared on Basketball Network.
Phil Jackson has had the unique experience of coaching both Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, two superstars who, despite their similarities, were at different points in their careers.
In the 1990s, Jordan was the NBA’s shining star—brilliant, dominant, and intensely driven. Conversely, Bryant emerged in the early 2000s as the talented successor. Jackson, while recognizing their shared qualities, noted a significant difference that influenced his coaching effectiveness.
Adapting to the Triangle Offense
When Jackson implemented the triangle offense, a system aimed at fostering ball movement and teamwork rather than isolation play, he was unsure how Jordan would react. This approach required the league’s top scorer to dial back his individualism and trust his teammates.
To Jackson’s surprise, Jordan embraced the system. “He was willing and able to slip into what I asked him to do and we asked him to conform to, to run this offense,” Jackson reflected. Despite being the Bulls’ focal point since Jackson’s arrival, they struggled to succeed until Jordan adapted to this new strategy.
The Shift in Focus
Before Jackson, Jordan was known for his jaw-dropping scoring, averaging an impressive 37.1 points per game in the 1986-87 season. However, his individual brilliance often fell short in the playoffs against better-coached teams. Recognizing this, Jackson challenged him to prioritize team dynamics over personal accolades, stating, “I asked him point blank to not win a championship in scoring.”
Jordan accepted this challenge and transitioned from a solo performer to a key player in a cohesive unit. As his scoring averaged dipped slightly, his efficiency soared, and the Bulls began to thrive. This evolution led to a decade of dominance, culminating in six championships over eight years and transforming Jordan into a symbol of winning.
Contrasting Experiences with Kobe Bryant
When Jackson later coached Bryant with the Los Angeles Lakers, the dynamics were different. Bryant was younger, still evolving, and had a strong independent streak. While he was undeniably talented, early on he struggled to relinquish control, especially as the Lakers sought to build team cohesion amidst egos clashing.
Jackson respected Bryant’s skill but highlighted that Jordan’s willingness to adapt at the right time enabled him to reshape his career and the game as a whole. This adaptability proved crucial in defining their respective eras in basketball.
This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Jul 23, 2025.
