MONTREAL and QUEBEC, Jan. 27, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- It appears gamblers want Phil Jackson to return to New York and pull the Knicks out of a losing rut. BetUS.com posted odds on Jackson, and big money wagers are being placed on Jackson's return to the court.
"Even though interim coach Herb Williams is the current betting favorite, unless he does a spectacular job over the next few months, I expect the Knicks' management to look elsewhere next season," says Mike Foreman, spokesperson for BetUS.com.
ESPN reported that Jackson would accept a phone call to discuss the possibility should Isiah Thomas approach him about the coaching position with his former team. The Zen Master has said he doesn't have the urge to coach, but is willing to entertain the idea. Although Jackson may not feel the fire for coaching, many others are fueling the prospect of Jackson's return through the media.
"Jackson may already have nine NBA championships rings, but there are still many that doubt whether he's the greatest coach of all time," says Foreman. "He was blessed with Jordan, Kobe and Shaq. There has to be something inside him that wants to prove the nay-sayers wrong and build a championship team without one of the greatest players of all time."
According to Foreman, Jackson is the best coach available for the job - "without a doubt." Despite those who may question Jackson's ability, the Knicks have a line-up of talented players and need a strong coach to build them into an elite team. "Our customers are backing Jackson," says Foreman. "They believe Jackson's ego will get the best of him and bring him back to the court."
BetUS.com has Jackson listed at 4/1, behind betting favorite Williams, listed at 2/1. The company's Website also features wagers on other coaching possibilities such as Michael Jordan and Rick Majerus.
Herb Williams 2/1 Flip Saunders 8/1 Larry Brown 12/1 Phil Jackson 4/1 Bill Cartwright 10/1 Michael Jordan 20/1 Isiah Thomas 5/1 Nate McMillan 10/1 Rick Majerus 20/1 Jeff Bzdelik 6/1 Chris Ford 12/1
BetUS.com (http://www.BetUS.com) is one of the oldest and most respected legal online sports betting organizations in the world and is licensed and bonded in two recognized gaming jurisdictions - Canada and Costa Rica. Employing over 500 people, BetUS.com provides a safe and secure place for sports wagering to more than 100,000 clients. Members can enjoy wagering on some of their favorite sports including: football, basketball, baseball, hockey, golf and boxing. BetUS.com has been in operation for 11 years and also offers Vegas-style casino games and interactive poker.