LOS ANGELES (AP) — Phil Jackson has discussed taking a pay cut if he returns to coach the Los Angeles Lakers next season.
Jackson confirmed the discussions Wednesday night before Game 2 of the Western Conference finals against the Phoenix Suns.
The 10-time NBA champion coach is making about $12 million in the final year of his contract with the Lakers, thought to be the biggest for a coach in league history. Jackson still hasn’t said whether he plans to coach anywhere next season.
Jeanie Buss, Jackson’s girlfriend and the daughter of Lakers owner Jerry Buss, had said the club was likely to reduce Jackson’s salary next season. She also believes Jackson will return if the Lakers win another title, but it’s less certain if they don’t.
