Los Angeles Lakers Announce Phil Jackson Statue

“Phil Jackson defines championship basketball for a reason,” said Los Angeles Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss. “His masterful approach to coaching brought out the best in some of the greatest athletes to ever play the game. After he accepted my dad’s invitation to join the Lakers, Phil’s unmatched creativity and commitment to excellence restored our championship legacy, bringing five titles and setting a standard of excellence for generations to come. It is a great joy to be able to mark that achievement with the statue he so richly deserves.”

Across 11 seasons as head coach (1999-2004, 2005-11), Jackson guided the Lakers through one of the most storied eras in franchise history. He led the Purple and Gold to seven NBA Finals appearances and five championships, including three consecutive titles from 2000-02 and back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010.

Jackson will become the ninth member of the Los Angeles Lakers to be commemorated at Star Plaza, joining Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Elgin Baylor, Kobe Bryant, Chick Hearn, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Pat Riley and Jerry West.