The Last Dance: Phil Jackson was a true players' coach

The Last Dance: Phil Jackson was a true player’s coach

Chicago Bulls head coach Phil Jackson (C) yells at his team 29 May during the first half of game six of his teams NBA Eastern Conference finals game against the Indiana Pacers at Market Square Arena in Indianapolis, IN. The winner of this series will take on the Utah Jazz in the NBA finals staring 03 June. AFP PHOTO/Jeff HAYNES (Photo by JEFF HAYNES / AFP) (Photo credit should read JEFF HAYNES/AFP via Getty Images) /

3 of 5

The Last Dance Photo by Steve DiPaola/NBAE via Getty Images /

Jackson & Pippen

In episode 2 of the series, it’s highlighted that Scottie Pippen was clearly underpaid. Like, terribly underpaid. Pippen was signed to a seven-year, $18 million deal while being the second-best player in the league. According to Dan Cancian, he was the sixth highest-paid player on the Bulls and high contract ranked 122nd in the league in terms of salary.

Because of Pippen’s cheap contract and inability to restructure the deal, Pippen felt that he didn’t have to return to the team immediately. Instead, he wanted to take his time to enjoy his summer and recover from his injury.

Related Story. TLD: Dennis Rodman's top moments as with the Chicago Bulls. light

However, Pippen’s frustrations with the Bulls grew. It grew to the point that Pippen demanded a trade and stated that he would never play for the Bulls again.

Now, since Jackson was the head coach, he could’ve demanded Pippen return and help the team on their quest to their sixth championship. He could’ve insulted Pippen during press conferences as well. Instead, Phil understood Pippen’s frustration and allowed Pippen to use this time to reflect. Jackson believed that Pippen had to “justify his contract” by sitting out before he returned to the team.

In the end, it worked. By Jackson not being forceful, and yet understanding, Pippen returned to the team to help win their sixth championship.

Home/Chicago Bulls