Jerry Sloan Goes Out Like a Boss

Jerry Sloan was the rarest of NBA coaches. First of all, he coached the Utah Jazz for 23 seasons — a ridiculously long time by any measurement. And when it was time for him to go, Jerry Sloan went out on his own terms. According to reports, Jerry Sloan’s abrupt move on Thursday was due to an ultimatum involving superstar point guard Deron Williams.

After Wednesday’s loss against the Chicago Bulls, Jerry Sloan was extremely mad with Deron Williams for not running plays as they were called. Jerry Sloan then demanded that the Jazz front office suspend Deron Williams. When the front office didn’t comply, Jerry Sloan quit on the spot.

Perhaps even more impressive was Phil Johnson’s move. The lead assistant coach for the Jazz could have been the team’s new head coach. Instead, Phil Johnson went down with the ship and quit right alongside Jerry Sloan.

I’ve always had respect for Jerry Sloan and Phil Johnson. That respect is now through the roof.

Jerry Sloan and Phil Johnson (Image: TSN.ca)