Phil Jackson coached in the CBA and was an assistant coach for several years before finally receiving the opportunity to become head coach of the Chicago Bulls.
His path is far different than Mark Jackson, who had zero coaching experience before becoming head coach of the Golden State Warriors.
"I have some problems with guys going directly from the (television) booth to coaching, without any preparation," said Phil Jackson, who worked his way up from coaching in minor-league outposts like Albany and Puerto Rico. "It's not that easy. Doc Rivers did it, and other guys have done it, and I think Mark was prepared to do that, but it's still a shock, so to speak - the practice, preparation and the whole nine yards, when you've been sitting on the observing end of it. ...
"But I hold nothing against Mark for having the opportunity."