Phil Jackson: "I've had some talks with people" re: basketball operations jobs

Phil Jackson remains as cagey as ever: In an interview with Scott Ostler of the San Francisco Chronicle, Jackson says he has been talking to "three or four teams" about taking over basketball operations, not coaching. He didn't name the teams but Ostler lists the Nets as among those most likely to have made contact.

"I've had some talks with people," Jackson said, "and there are some interesting situations that are presenting themselves, but I really haven't made up my mind yet what I'm going to do. None of it involves coaching. ... There are three or four teams that have been interested."

Jackson laid out to Ostler how he'd like it work: he'd be interested in a developing team "where you'd have the influence in (selecting the) coaching staff and the kind of culture that goes along with it. It goes all the way down to - not down to, but includes - trainers and the people who are doing the hands-on work with players, that have to be really embedded with how you put a team together. ... The support group is important; guys who get an opportunity to hear and talk and influence the players.

"It would be a real opportunity to implant the game, a culture that I believe in - that's the intriguing part."

Jackson said there's no timetable on a decision but left the distinct impression he wants back in. As for the Nets, Ostler writes, "Jackson's New York connection is strong, and the Nets' owner thinks (and pays) big."

• Phil Jackson: Zen master to general manager? - Scott Ostler - San Francisco Chronicle