Nonfiction Annotation- - Phil Jackson

Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success

by Phil Jackson and Hugh Delehanty

New York: Penguin Press, 2013.

368 pages

ISBN:  978-1-59420-511-8

Call Number: 796.323092 JACK

Summary: Legendary NBA basketball coach Phil Jackson reflects on having parents of Pentecostal faith in Montana, his college years at the University of North Dakota, his time playing for the New York Knicks in the 1970s and ultimately winning two NBA championships, later using his unique coaching style to lead the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers to multiple NBA championships, and finding balance in his spiritual, family, and work relationships which have had an impact on his long lasting and successful career.

Genre:  Memoir

Characteristics: 

Jackson’s background and professional highs and lows as an NBA player/coach are highly chronicled in this book. He discusses applying the Buddhist Zen practice in his work and personal life as well as his remarkable travels with his siblings, dealing with divorce, and even facing several health issues. Interesting details of conversations while mentoring various all-star NBA players (i.e., Michael Jordan, Dennis Rodman, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal) are included along with inspiring quotes on teamwork and achievement. Jackson’s thoughts on coaches Red Auerbach, Pat Riley, Gregg Popovich are notable; his experiences working as an assistant coach for Doug Collins will further interest readers. 

Appeals

• NBA basketball enthusiasts
• A must-have for those pursuing a career in sports management
• Includes Buddhist Zen meditation techniques

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