The Lakers made a move as soon as the lockout-shortened 1999 season ended; rookie coach Kurt Rambis immediately lost his job.
Because after being swept, Shaquille O'Neal told the media, "We need a coach who has respect and championship experience."
This statement received support from most Los Angeles media and fans.
After Pat Riley, the Lakers had recruited Mike Dunleavy and Silver Fox Harris, but neither was capable of commanding the whole situation.
Then, a name emerged in the media — Phil Jackson.
Phil Jackson had signed a five-year contract with the Knicks, but after Jordan retired, the Knicks also fired Jackson.
He became the first coach in NBA history to be fired in the season he was named Coach of the Year.
After that, Phil Jackson began traveling around America, nearly cut off from the world.
Until one day, he received a call from Jerry West.
