The Legends of LA

This piece may seem a couple of weeks old, but the reflections will be timely. The last few weeks have reminded us that there is wisdom in Los Angeles. Ten days ago, Phil Jackson guided his Los Angeles Lakers to their 2nd consecutive NBA title. For Jackson, it was his 11th, between the Lakers and the Chicago Bulls.

A couple of weeks ago, we learned of the passing of legendary UCLA Bruins basketball coach, John Wooden at the age of 99. He coached the Bruins to 10 NCAA Championships in his 27 years at the University. He was a great man who shared his wisdom in books, players and and countless interviews. He was remembered last night at Pauley Pavillion where his seat was retired where he watched the Bruins for nearly 25 years.

What binds these two great coaches besides geography? The fact that both ended up in Los Angeles is a coincidence. Both are from the Midwest-Wooden from Indiana and Jackson from Montana. Both played basketball-Jackson in the NBA where he collected two more championships as a player with the New York Knicks in the early 70's. Both are brilliant men who have made it their business to know how there players think and work together. In general, they have the following in common:

• Great players
• Ability to motivate
• Life balance
• Sincerity

Both men had great players. In fact, as Jackson mulls retirement, many are stating that you don't need a great coach for this team. It should run on its own. Don't be deceived. Great players need great coaches. One supports the other. It's called respect. Players need to believe in their coach in times of stress, when the game's on the line. Even players making four times the salary. The ability to say the right thing at the right time is a common gift among the two coaches. They both seem to have balanced lives and focus on the important things. Finally, both are sincere, approachable and wise.

How about your organization? Do you have a great staff? Can you motivate them in times of stress? Do you create an opportunity for life balance? Are you sincere, approachable and trustworthy? Most leaders complain they don't have the right people in the right place. I've been guilty of this in the past. A good leader attracts good players who understand their system and want to be motivated. A good leader develops their team to take the organization to the next level.

We can learn a lot from these two men. I suggest reading their books and understand their fundamentals of leadership. Phil Jackson-congratulations and Coach Wooden-RIP.