In today's NBA there are many talented players and teams with potential. What is the difference between a good team and a great team? In many cases the difference is the coach. Many NBA players can be difficult to coach because of their ego, and this is no easy job at all. It is only for those who can bring out the best in every individual on the team, while at the same time getting them to play together as one. Who are the top coaches in the NBA today? There are definitely some tough cuts when putting together a list of just five individuals, but that's the way it goes! Here are your top five coaches in the NBA today.
5. Stan Van Gundy - Orlando Magic: There are probably going to be quite a few people who don't like this ranking. Van Gundy is as plain-spoken as they come in this business, which can ruffle some feathers. Stan hasn't won a championship, but you could argue he should have one if it weren't for Pat Riley stealing his thunder in Miami. The Magic play well together as a team and continuously outperform expectations. I fully believe Stan Van Gundy has a lot to do with that!
4. Rick Adelman - Houston Rockets: Adelman is an underrated coach who simply knows how to help a team win. In his 18 years as a head coach his team has had a losing season just twice! Adelman is a master at adapting his schemes to fit the players on his roster. The Rockets are a much different team when Yao is out of the lineup, and his philosophy helps this team be successful even when they are without their superstar.
3. Jerry Sloan - Utah Jazz: The Utah Jazz are good every single year. The Jazz probably have the best offensive scheme in the NBA, and that is definitely thanks to Jerry Sloan. Sloan requires a lot from his players, but he is very fair as well. In his 23 years as a head coach in the NBA, he has seen the game change numerous times. Sloan missed out on some NBA titles in the 1990s because Michael Jordan simply carried the Bulls to NBA Finals wins, but don't doubt how good of a coach he is.
2. Gregg Popovich - San Antonio Spurs: The Spurs have won 50 plus games for eleven straight years now. Popovich has won four titles with the Spurs, and he is highly respected by everyone in the game. Popovich is well-known for being terrific at developing stars and fostering an environment where players with raw talent become stars in a short period of time. Anyone that can win 50 plus games eleven straight times and win four NBA titles deserves a spot very high on the list.
1. Phil Jackson - Los Angeles Lakers: Jackson has won more NBA Championships than anyone now. Jackson has definitely had superstars on his team in numerous occasions, but give him credit for getting those stars to play as part of the team. Jackson has a winning percentage of over 70% in 1,560 games on the sidelines. Jackson is patient with his players and he commands their respect at all times. Phil Jackson is a winner, which makes him number one in my book.
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