Bold claim: Michael Jordan’s era defined what it means to be the NBA’s greatest, and Phil Jackson unpacks why in his new book, Masters of the Game: A Conversational History of the NBA in 75 Legendary Players, co-authored with Sam Smith. Jackson profiles the stars who shaped basketball, with Jordan repeatedly rising to the top as he guided the Bulls to six championships.
What stands out, Jackson notes, is Jordan’s resilience: he absorbed tough blows and returned to the free-throw line with the same intensity. In an era when teams routinely played four games in five nights, Jordan could still bring the same level of effort on the fifth night as he did on the first. This is part of what fans remember about his relentlessness.
Smith adds a broader perspective: height and sheer size aren’t the sole determinants of basketball success. Shaquille O’Neal, at a towering 7'1", was a physical force who could have been the best ever, yet Kobe Bryant—O’Neal’s teammate—proved that sheer talent isn’t everything. Kobe matched Jordan in seriousness and work ethic, regularly working out from early morning to late at night, determined to maximize his game.
Key interview highlights provide a window into Jackson’s leadership approach and the dynamics with Jordan, Kobe, and others:
- Building trust without seeking favors: Jackson explains that true leadership means avoiding a transactional dynamic and focusing on genuine improvement. Credibility and the ability to help a player get better are the two things that keep top athletes engaged and trusting the system.
- The Jordan Rules and its fallout: Sam Smith recalls The Jordan Rules, his 1991 book, which touched on the competitive fire and the sometimes uncomfortable realities of pro basketball. The point remains that great players respond when challenged—positive pressure often brings out peak performance.
- Kobe Bryant’s evolution: Jackson discusses Kobe’s transition from a lead guard role to a more expansive, Jordan-like leadership position. Kobe’s quiet focus and willingness to absorb coaching shaped him into a captain who could carry a team.
- Leadership development in Kobe: Kobe sought leadership early, choosing to study tapes and stay present in the room rather than chase social distractions. Jackson provided him with leadership literature and mentorship, helping him grow into a pairable, team-focused leader.
- Remembering Kobe after his passing: Jackson reflects on a recent conversation about Kobe’s family and post-playing life, including Kobe coaching a girls’ team and the public’s ongoing extraction of lessons from his career, especially his work ethic and competitiveness.
- Dennis Rodman’s role: Rodman’s reputation as a “bad boy” belied his real value when it came to team chemistry. Jackson emphasizes Rodman’s rebounding, defense, and selfless contributions to the team, while noting his challenges with focus.
- The coaching experience: Jackson reflects on a career that has placed him among championship players and coaches who embraced unselfish play, collaboration, and the demanding lifestyle of professional basketball.
This interview, produced and edited for broadcast, offers a candid look at the relationships, philosophies, and moments that define one of basketball’s most iconic eras. It invites readers to consider not just who is the greatest, but what it takes to sustain excellence at the highest level, and how leadership, discipline, and teamwork interplay with raw talent to win championships.
What do you think: Is Jordan truly the GOAT, or do leadership, teammates, and system play an equally decisive role? How do you weigh natural talent against relentless work and strategic coaching? Share your thoughts in the comments and tell us where you stand on the ultimate question in basketball history.
