I’ve followed Phil Jackson’s career for many years and have read his books.  I’ve even studied Buddhism, especially since my daughter spent seven years in a Buddhist monastery in Kyoto, Japan.  Here’s why Phil Jackson will be successful:  First and foremost, he encourages honest communication among his players.  Team meetings are often held (with and without a coach present) allowing his players to vent their feelings in a controlled environment. Second, he doesn’t over-coach his players, encouraging them to use their God-given talents, especially during the final three or four minutes of a game.  Third, he is a highly spiritual person, having learned from Native Americans  while growing up in Montana.  And finally, his players always know he cares about them as human beings first, and then as athletic performers. Coaches who combine these four principles are destined to win. And you can be sure, the head coach he selects will implement them.