Phil Jackson, who coached NBA legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, expressed regret over not coaching Christian Laettner during his career. In an interview, Jackson highlighted Laettner's untapped potential and leadership qualities. Laettner had a solid but underwhelming 13-year NBA tenure after starring at Duke.
Phil Jackson, renowned for guiding the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers to multiple championships, listed some of the greatest players he coached, including Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal, and Scottie Pippen. However, in a recent interview with Dan Patrick, Jackson named an unexpected player he wished he could have mentored: Christian Laettner.
"I think Laettner is like one of the guys, I thought, never really got to play the way he was capable of playing in the NBA," Jackson said. "I would like to coach a guy like that that has talent, had some leadership ability, maybe never blossomed as an NBA player."
Laettner, an iconic figure from Duke University, transitioned to a 13-year NBA career that Jackson believed fell short of his capabilities. Experts suggest Laettner's skills as a passer and outside shooter would have fit well in Jackson's triangle offense, especially in an era where big men were primarily valued for rebounding and interior scoring. Playing alongside stars like Jordan or Bryant might have alleviated the pressure Laettner faced as a focal point early in his career.
Jackson also praised Laettner's leadership and competitive drive, traits that shone during his Duke days and would have complemented the Bulls or Lakers' ultra-competitive environments.
Despite not working with Jackson, Laettner achieved notable milestones. He earned a spot on the 1992-93 All-Rookie Team and made his lone All-Star appearance in the 1996-97 season. That year, he helped the Atlanta Hawks compile a 56-26 record, defeating the Detroit Pistons in the first round of the playoffs before falling to Jackson's Bulls in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Over his career, Laettner averaged 12.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. He also secured an Olympic gold medal as part of the 1992 Dream Team.