By Greg Johnson
Jackson brings celebrity star power to the Lakers, but Buss will also be looking for more profits and fewer losses for his $30-million investment.
By Jason Reid
Coaches who return to the scene of previous triumph prove you can't always go home again.
By Mike Bresnahan
Former coach Jackson gets a three-year, $30-million contract, but he says he doesn't expect the team to turn around overnight.
By Lonnie White
Among the coach's initial challenges is sorting out what he calls a 'glutted roster.'
MARK HEISLER ON THE NBA
Mark Heisler
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Who knew?
T.J. SIMERS
T.J. Simers
I took for granted Phil Jackson left his white horse tied up out back when he stepped to the microphone, a little surprised, though, that I didn't hear the sound of trumpets heralding his return to save the Lakers.
MIKE PENNER SOUND AND VISION
Mike Penner
"Believe it or not," ESPN's John Saunders said from a seat in Auburn Hills, Mich., a couple thousand miles away from the real news in the NBA on Tuesday, "there is actually a game of basketball to be played tonight. It is Game No. 3 of the NBA Finals, San Antonio coming on the road with a two games to nothing lead over the defending champs."
J.A. ADANDE
J.A. Adande
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — And so it begins, in the same building where the Lakers as we knew them came to a disappointing end. They are now, officially, certified as the It team in basketball again.
BILL PLASCHKE
Bill Plaschke
He is Kobe Bryant's mortal enemy.
By Sam Farmer
Experts at reconciliation say repairing their relationship won't be easy, but it is possible.
By Mark Heisler
Back home for Game 3, they rediscover their old game and attitude to wallop San Antonio, 96-79, and trim Spurs' series lead to 2-1.
By Steve Springer
She has been Phil Jackson's most visible supporter and most vocal cheerleader. She has campaigned for his return to the Laker coaching job in front of the cameras and behind the scenes. She has been romantically involved with Jackson since he first coached the team six years ago and has publicly bemoaned that he won't marry her.
• THE NUMBERS: A .561 road winning percentage in the playoffs, the best in postseason history.
