The Last Dance: Episode 4

When you reach some form of accomplishment in your life, it is probably the greatest feeling on earth. Whether small or big, it all means something. It says that you didn't give up. You didn't quit on yourself and those around you. This changed you for the greater good. Because you adjusted and tried something new. Welcome to the Bulls and their triangle offense. The phase that leads them to the victory of their dreams.

As Phil Jackson became the new coach, Michael wasn't a fan at first because he was going to change the whole team system. He was going to not make Michael the only person with the ball in his hands. Michael felt off about the situation at first. When you are the all-star player that knows that the only way to win is through yourself, it creates mental confusion. You finally realize you have a lack of trust in the team as a whole because you put so much of it on how you impact the game. You feel it is your responsibility for the success of everything. As a result, that can eventually lead to the inner decaying of your personal growth. It will drain you immensely.

In a way, this helped Michael out more than anything. This new offense, known as the triangle, was going to develop him into a more diverse player. He saw the truth in this because even though he would get potentially fewer shots, he can now create options. The team now has a path. Every choice leads to a new route. Just like how a dribble-drive leads to an open teammate. How the extra pass leads to a higher percentage shot. It all connects together.

Another reason why Michael began to buy into the new system is that he knew he wasn't as great of a basketball player until he wins a championship. He realized that if he wins, it would erase all the debates and arguments of his gameplay status. That he's more than just a skilled basketball player. He wanted to prove that he can lead his team to become NBA champions. That was his goal.

Phil Jackson helped guide these players into their own team legacy. Now only was the offense great for their court movement, but he also cared about their well-being as well. He believed in yoga practices, stretching, and tribal beliefs from Native Americans. This was a part of his human traits and he utilized that to bring empathy to his players. Making connections and learning to understand a player's wants and needs. 

Dennis Rodman always was a complex person, but Phil was able to work with him and have open conversations. This was important because mental health can very much be overlooked in sports. Players are always under pressure and constantly working hard. Not only that, but athletes also have real-world situations that they have to face when they step off the court. Just like any human being.

We could look at the bulls and see their transition from when Michael first came to the team vs when Phil Jackson first became their coach. The relationship between these two showcases how power always needs to come with prayer. Your spiritual health is a necessity. How you are as a person is as important to how you play on the court. If there is no balance, there is no structure. Play with passion, rather than anger. I believe coaches and players both need balance to have a well-developed team. For the future, we can continue to grow and enhance the way of basketball by simple acts of kindness, motivation, tough love, and encouragement.