And perhaps the most interesting reference in the book was West's description of his relationship with former Lakers head coach Phil Jackson.
West, who was general manager of the Lakers from 1983-2000, is largely credited for building the Lakers' dynasty in the 1980s and laying the foundation for the team's three-peat from 2000-2002.
And let's just say the fact that West's last season with the Lakers was Jackson's first was not a coincidence.
Wrote West in the book, via the San Jose Mercury News:
”So one of the problems I had with Phil was this. His office was right near mine and when he would arrive in the morning, he would walk right past and never even bother to wave or duck his head in to say hello.
“He would later say that he felt the need to stake out his territory, that on top of that he was 'a wack job,’ but I am sure it was more than that.”
West also confirmed the longtime rumor that Jackson once kicked him out of the locker room after a game. West quotes Jackson as saying, “Jerry, get the f– out, I’m not finished here yet."
Said West, “Phil and I had no relationship. None. He didn’t want me around and had absolutely no respect for me–of that, I have no doubt.”
This is nothing new for Lakers Land. It's only fitting that in a city composed of so many actors that such drama would unfold throughout the years for the Lakers organization.
It was only fitting that West, a longtime Laker, also wrote about his "personal demons" in the autobiography. There have been plenty in Laker Land, further referenced in Jackson's book, The Last Season: A Team in Search of Its Soul...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
