Wow is Phil Jackson delutional, He picked Rodman as the greatest athlete?

Question

whats he smoking>

Answer 1

ummm have you ever seen Rodman play.  He was ridiculous athlete.  And that doesnt mean best player.

Answer 2

I can totally believe that.  Eventhough Rodman has a weird personality, he was an awesome athlete and had an incredible work ethic.  I would most definitely consider him a Hall of Famer and one of the all-time greats.  And not only do he have the stats, but he has the rings to prove it and he was actually a vital part of every championship team he played for.

And keep in mind, Phil never said Rodman was the best "player", he said the best "athlete".  He's not talking about actual skill-level but things like work ethic, strength, agility, stamina, build, etc.

Answer 3

not the greatest athlete, but the greatest athlete he handle

Answer 4

well, phil might have his criteria in choosing rodman as the greatest athlete. he won't say such thing unless he knows what he's talking about. he's a smart guy.  

Answer 5

Phil Jackson was there and has coached all those players personally. I haven't.  If that's how he feels about it, then I'll have to take his word for it I guess.    

Just keep in mind that Rodman wasn't always just a 1-dimensional rebounder.  When he was younger he was a pretty solid offensive player too, and he could guard multiple positions on the floor much like Scottie Pippen did in Chicago except Rodman could guard Centers too.  I remember Rodman guarding PG Magic Johnson in the NBA finals, and I also remember Rodman guarding Centers like Shaq and Alonzo Mourning in their primes too.  Not many players have been that versatile defensively.  

Answer 6

He said best athlete, not best basketball player. There is a difference. Besides, who would know better than Jackson himself.