When Jeff Hornacek and Phil Jackson crossed paths in the ’97 and ’98 NBA Finals, most people would have never imagined the two joining forces to run a team. 18 years later, the sharp shooter from Illinois and the legendary coach from Montana will seek success in New York. So, how exactly did the two forge a relationship that led to Jackson hiring Hornacek as the 28th head coach in franchise history? Hornacek was taken aback by the initial interest from Jackson. “I was pretty surprised,” Hornacek admitted. “I think probably the only words I ever said was, ‘Congratulations on the championship again,’ when they beat us the two times. So I really didn’t ever talk to him a lot prior to that. So going into the meeting, I’m like, OK, this will probably be an hour or two that I’ll talk to him.” After Jackson and Hornacek met for six hours in Los Angeles and another six in New York, the partnership formed and the interest became mutual. As opposed to focusing on the Triangle Offense, the two men discussed system basketball, philosophies, and necessary steps for the Knicks to return to the postseason. While Hornacek said the Triangle would be part of the offense moving forward, he will look to incorporate aspects of the scheme he used in Phoenix, including pick-and-rolls and an up-tempo style. The assumption was that Jackson would hire a disciple, but he looked outside of the box during a critical offseason for the franchise. Jackson found comfort in selecting a former second round pick that worked his way to an All-Star appearance, two three-point championships, and a starting spot on one of the most successful franchises in NBA history. He also suited up for a legendary coach in Utah, Jerry Sloan. “Knowing him as a competitor, as a player and as a coach, the demeanor, are things I liked about Jeff,” Jackson stated. “He’s a person that you can relate to, and it’s one of those things that was just right off the bat. The communication level went on forward from there.” He added, “That comfort zone was possible and that basketball knowledge that he has and the familiarity he has with playing basketball are things that attracted us to Jeff.” This unlikely pair seems like a natural fit.
