NBA - Written by daniel80111 on Thursday, June 4, 2009 2:09 - 2 Comments

As we approach game 1 of the NBA Finals, the entire basketball nation is wondering what will happen between Kobe Bryant and Dwight Howard. Who will lead their team to victory? Will Stan Van Gundy panic in a tight situation? Will the Magic continue to shoot lights out from 3 point range?

While the stars take up all the spotlight, one overlooked factor will likely be the very thing that decides the NBA Championship. Phil Jackson vs game 1.

Jackson has had tremendous success in the NBA Playoffs. He is currently tied with the legendary Red Auerbach for the most championships. What is the secret to Phil Jackson’s playoff success?

Phil Jackson holds a 43-0 record when winning game 1 of a playoff series. Through all the years he’s coached the Chicago Bulls and the Los Angeles Lakers, he has never lost a series in which he has won the first game. So what does that tell us?  Phil Jackson winning game 1 won’t neccessarily guarantee a championship for the Lakers, but his 43-0 record clearly shifts the probability in favor of the Lakers.