UPDATE: Hall of Fame coach Phil Jackson has just revealed explosive details about his tumultuous tenure as president of the New York Knicks, claiming his strained relationship with star forward Carmelo Anthony forced him out of the organization in June 2017. In his upcoming book, Masters of the Game: A Conversational History of the NBA in 75 Legendary Players, set for release on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, Jackson opens up about the “busted” pairing that led to his departure.
Jackson’s candid remarks come from a chapter focusing on Anthony, where he recounts a tense conversation with Knicks owner James Dolan. Dolan expressed concerns about the media’s impact on Jackson’s future with the team, to which Jackson replied, “Unfortunately my relationship with Carmelo is kind of busted, and if he’s going to be here, it’s probably best that I go.” These insights underscore the significant tension that characterized Jackson’s leadership from 2014 to 2017.
The revelations shed light on why Jackson left the Knicks just months after the team opted not to buy out Anthony’s contract. Jackson’s presidency was marked by public criticisms of Anthony, leading to a perceived irreparable rift. The situation deteriorated further after Jackson pushed for Anthony’s trade, stating, “I don’t want Carmelo back on the team; we’ve got to find a way to trade him.” This urgency to part ways highlights the deep-seated issues that plagued the franchise during Jackson’s time.
In the book, Jackson recounts a meeting where he urged Dolan to collaborate with Anthony’s agent, Leon Rose, to facilitate a trade, noting that Anthony deserved a chance to compete for a championship. Jackson’s exit did not resolve the conflict, as Anthony was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder just three months later after waiving his no-trade clause.
Further complicating Jackson’s legacy, he admits that hiring coach Derek Fisher was a significant mistake, stating Fisher “wasn’t ready to coach.” Additionally, Jackson reflects on how the pressure from the league over potential collusion strained his personal relationships, particularly with Jeanie Buss, owner of the Los Angeles Lakers.
Anthony himself has previously pointed fingers at Jackson for his departure from New York, stating in a February 2024 web series with Dwyane Wade, “Phil pushed me out of New York. I struggled to leave New York.” This ongoing feud adds an emotional layer to Jackson’s revelations, resonating with fans and analysts alike.
As these insights emerge, basketball fans and analysts are left to ponder the legacy of Jackson’s time with the Knicks, and how it continues to influence the franchise today. With Masters of the Game hitting shelves soon, expect further discussions and debates around these controversial claims and their implications for the NBA.
Stay tuned for more updates on Jackson’s revelations and their impact on the Knicks’ future as this story develops.
