Phil Jackson: Coach Norman Dale (Hoosiers)
“I’ve seen you guys can shoot but there’s more to the game than shooting. There’s fundamentals and defense.”
Not usually the “Ra Ra” type, Coach Jackson would best be served taking a look at some of the motivational speeches Gene Hackman delivered in the 1986 classic, Hoosiers. Is this a hokey selection on my part? Absolutely. But this is Game 7, where X’s and O’s can be thrown out the window.
This game is about who wants it more. Right now, Phil’s number one priority is motivating his team like he’s never done before. He must remind them to do the dirty work and remember that it’s defense, not offense, that wins championships. The Lakers should forget about the glitz and glam of Hollywood, ignore the A-List celebs filling the courtside seats and get down to business. It’s time to roll up your sleeves, get dirty, and bring home the Larry O-Brian trophy.
It was either this, or the speech that Dawson gave at halftime during Varsity Blues. If Phil can motivate his team half as well as Van Der Beek did, he’ll be wiping champagne from his eyes around 9:15pm.
Next: Captain of the Fish
