Phil Jackson reveals in his book he had prostate cancer during 2011 playoffs

GreatOne1978 · Apr 28, 2013

It was during that 2011 postseason that Jackson tried something different than he ever had, which he reveals in his new book "Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success," to be released to the public May 21. It's no small thing, and it might explain a little what happened to Jackson and that Lakers team that failed to win a third consecutive championship.

Jackson was diagnosed with prostate cancer in March 2011. After doctors assured him the cancer could be controlled by drugs temporarily, Jackson waited until after the season to undergo surgery.

Jackson decided to divulge his situation to his players when he sensed the team was lacking something in the playoffs.

"Shocking," Pau Gasol said Saturday, remembering Jackson's disclosure to the team. "But then you also could understand certain moments of his demeanor, energy and involvement because of what he was going through health-wise. It explained certain things. It was a shock. A difficult moment for the team."

Gasol said Jackson talked with team captains Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher privately before telling the whole team in a video session – but Jackson was left second-guessing the revelation in which he became teary-eyed as he spoke … the Lakers strangely fading in that series vs. Dallas.

Gasol allowed that it was different for the team to see Jackson – "such a big figure, the physical and spiritual leader of the team" – as vulnerable.

"As much as I love Phil and I appreciate everything about him," Gasol said, "it was difficult to know."

There were other factors in Dallas sweeping the Lakers in that second round – fatigue from the previous title runs, a new defense installed at midseason, Bryant's weak right knee, what Jackson called a serious family issue for Gasol that he still declined to detail Saturday.
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Pretty crazy

Ziggy · Apr 28, 2013

What was that Gasol family issue again (last line in the quote)? His wife cheated on him or something? That story was true I guess?

coolweather · Apr 28, 2013

he's just saying that he's still got balls.

Aleron · Apr 28, 2013

That would explain why he doesn't want to go through the stress of the day to day of coaching.

swyyyguy · Apr 28, 2013

WE WANT PHIL!

FatChad · Apr 29, 2013

Was the family issue realizing his brother is a badass that can outplay him any day of the week?

Pukimonster · Apr 29, 2013

Ziggy said: ↑

What was that Gasol family issue again (last line in the quote)? His wife cheated on him or something? That story was true I guess?
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His girl dumped him

ling ling · Apr 30, 2013

If you read the book, the last page re-stated that he didn't have prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer had him..., and prostate cancer lost.

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Phil Jackson reveals in his book he had prostate cancer during 2011 playoffs

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