BEFORE the Chicago Bulls’ unstoppable tandem of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen and the Los Angeles Lakers’ dynamic duo of Shaquille O’ Neal and Kobe Bryant experienced Phil Jackson’s coaching prowess, Thomasians had the privilege of being mentored by one of the National Basketball Association’s (NBA) greatest coaches of all time.
Jackson, together with eight former NBA players, conducted a three-hour basketball clinic in UST on May 7, 1984.
The group was on a four-nation Asian tour dubbed “Challenge Tour Asia,” which aimed to promote the NBA style of basketball in the orient. The Manila leg, the last of the tour, was made possible by the Basketball Association of the Philippines.
NBA Greats Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, Rick Barry, and “Pistol” Pete Maravich led the group of retired hoopsters. Also present were Mel Davis, Cazzie Russel, and Dennis Awtrey, Jackson’s teammate from the New York Knickerbockers team that won the NBA title in 1972 and 1973. Former Phoenix Suns cagers Connie Hawkins and Fred Brown Jr. completed the group.
Jackson was the event’s main facilitator. He taught proper execution of basic basketball skills, with emphasis on dribbling and shooting. He also stressed the importance of developing confidence through constant practice and hard work. Jackson, likewise, shared some of his philosophies on defense, his trademark strength.
The players showcased their skills to the delight of the Thomasian audience. Barry, the NBA’s all-time free-throw percentage leader, made foul shots blindfolded. Russel, on the other hand, demonstrated his deft touch, making 16 consecutive jump shots in 60 seconds. But it was Brown who drew the loudest cheers, awing the viewers with a variety of dun‘ks.
Jackson, who is known as the Zen Master for his calm coaching style, is tied with former Boston Celtics coach Red Auerbach for the most number of NBA championships by a coach at nine.
Source: The Varsitarian, May 31, 1984
