PHIL JACKSON ARE LAKERS FANS IMPRESSED YET?

Byline: Steve Dilbeck Staff Writer

So what do you make of Phil Jackson now?

There are a lot of things going on here, but that's what makes it so interesting. And after one season as coach of the Lakers, you might not feel like you know him any better, but chances are you admire him more. This is a man who has now won nine NBA championships - two as a player with the Knicks, six as coach of the Bulls and now one with the Lakers.

And in many respects, it is this last one that might be most impressive.

Jackson brings an unorthodox style to the NBA coaching world, but for him it works. The Lakers were a hugely talented team that each postseason would almost self-destruct. Jackson was hired last year at $6 million per season to make a difference, though few figured it would be so immediate.

In Los Angeles, we specialize in being unimpressed. Even if Jackson arrived with more than just rings. He came with that quirky reputation. The Zen master, the meditation, the books he would hand out to players, the Native American and Eastern philosophy, now tai chi workouts.

But Jackson had more than just a unique perspective. He had coached NBA champions and had immediate player respect. A team that often lost interest in past coaches, was on alert. Jackson had more than just an impressive resume, he had a presence. He was in control. He carries himself like he's always the smartest person in the room, and in truth usually is. He reeked confidence and it carried over to the team.

When things would be tough, Jackson would normally sit calmly on the sideline. A cool head to offer assurance, and when needed, a little experienced basketball wisdom. He can sometimes appear smug, yet is not a coach who seeks acclaim. He acts like a coach who knows exactly what he wants. Regardless of the personalities, of any difficult history between superstars, of starters learning to become role effective role players, he made it work.

And the Lakers had a title to show for it.

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Photo: Lakers coach Phil Jackson has brought a unique style and approach to L.A. and he's won with it.

Hans Gutknecht/Staff Photographer