Phil Jackson, the legendary NBA coach known for his serene Montana lifestyle and unparalleled coaching career, has unexpectedly entered the political conversation. On April 23, 2025, Jackson took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a video of a climate change protest at Trump Tower, owned by Donald Trump. The video captured a protester being arrested after spray-painting the building’s sign, an act reportedly organized by the environmental activist group Extinction Rebellion.
The protester defended his actions, stating, “I did this because I am an American. It is my duty to stand up for my country and my Earth when a government becomes destructive of our right to life,” as reported by Newsweek. Jackson’s decision to share the video has left fans puzzled, as he has largely avoided political discourse throughout his career and retirement.
At 79, Jackson is celebrated as one of the greatest coaches in NBA history, with 11 championships to his name. His legacy includes leading the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers to iconic three-peats alongside basketball legends like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. Since stepping away from coaching after the 2010-11 season, Jackson has maintained a low profile, focusing on a quiet life in Montana.
A long way from what he usually does
This recent post, however, marks a rare departure from his usual focus on basketball and personal reflections. It follows another instance where Jackson questioned the NBA’s scheduling of games on religious holidays, sparking discussions about his evolving public persona. Fans have taken to social media to express confusion and curiosity about Jackson’s sudden engagement with political and cultural topics.
The video has reignited debates about the intersection of sports and politics, a relationship that has grown more prominent in recent years. While some fans applaud Jackson for using his platform to highlight important issues, others question the motivations behind his post and its implications for his legacy.
As the conversation unfolds, Jackson’s unexpected foray into political commentary continues to captivate fans and critics alike. Whether this marks a new chapter in his public life or a one-off statement, it’s clear that the Zen Master still knows how to spark a reaction.
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