Why I’m grateful for Jerry Sloan

Posted by: James Taylor on November 29th, 2010

The author's views are entirely his or her own and may not reflect the views of the Utah Jazz.

For almost as long as I’ve been alive, Jazz fans have had the pleasure of watching one of the best head coaches ever coach their team.  Jerry teaches tough, solid basketball.  Every time a big name team loses to the Jazz someone from the other team either praises or condemns Jerry Sloan.  They say his teams are dirty, or they say a Jerry coached team plays solid basketball with good coaching adjustments.

I consider myself a basketball purist.  During my playing days I was an undersized combo guard, so to combat my lack of size and athleticism, I played tough or as many people say “dirty.”  Yet, I learned to play that way by watching my hero, John Stockton, be the ultimate Jerry player.  The Jazz usually have a smaller frontline and good backcourts.  But the physicality of those players, taught by Jerry, is what makes the Jazz great.

I also appreciate how Jerry has stuck with the Jazz no matter what.  He doesn’t leave when Stockton retires and Malone leaves.  His players respect him and don’t blame them for their own failures.  Yes, that is a shot at Phil Jackson and Lebron.  Sure, we’ve been pretty successful, but the Jazz have had ups and downs.  He’s never given up on the Jazz.  He takes whatever the front office gives him.  And then does more with it than anyone expected, except for those of us here in Utah.

Jerry, stay as long as you want.  Jazz fans everywhere should appreciate the blessing we have had and will continue to have in having not just a Hall of Fame coach, but having one of the greatest ever.  I for one have full faith that Jerry will continue to lead this team in the positive direction.  Thank you, once again, Jerry Sloan!

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