The last time he was at Staples Center, Phil Jackson sat about 10 rows behind the Knicks' bench, next to GM Steve Mills. At one point, he was shown on the giant video screen above the court, accompanied by the theme from "Welcome Back, Kotter." The fans on hand gave Jackson a long, loud ovation.
The Knicks president smiled and waved, presenting a picture of tranquility.
If Jackson attends Sunday night's Knicks-Lakers game in Los Angeles, a similar scene may play out with Jackson smiling and waving to an adoring crowd.
One wonders, though, if Jackson would get the same reaction these days in New York.