National Basketball Association

New York Knicks: Brandon Jennings Trains With Phil Jackson

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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New York Knicks sixth man Brandon Jennings spent his day training with 13-time NBA champion and current team president Phil Jackson.

The New York Knicks have gone from a non-factor to the talk of the town in no time whatsoever. Whether or not the general population is believing the hype, there’s a strong enough sense of optimism in New York to warrant postseason consideration.

One of the most valuable and influential members of the 2016-17 Knicks will be sixth man Brandon Jennings.

Jennings enters the 2016-17 season with something to prove. He’s one of the more recognizable players in the NBA, but he’s also one season removed from a ruptured achilles tendon that severely damaged his quality of play in 2015-16.

In an attempt to get back to what works for him, Jennings is spending time with the ultimate champion: Phil Jackson.

Somebody said go focus with Phil. I was today at Workouts! ???????? pic.twitter.com/lVMRCHhtZb

— Brandon Jennings (@brandonjennings) September 16, 2016

There’s no one better than Jackson at helping players tap into their inner potential.

Jennings entered 2015-16 with career averages of 16.6 points, 6.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.9 3-point field goals made per game on 35.1 percent shooting from distance. Though inefficient as a shooter, he has a career average of 2.4 turnovers in 33.9 minutes.

Jennings’ career assist-to-turnover ratio of 2.58, as well as his 3-point shooting and touch as a facilitator, will be a welcome addition to the Knicks.

By working with Jackson, the Compton native has a rare opportunity to learn from the coach who dominated his state growing up. Jennings was was between 10 and 12 years of age when Jackson led the Los Angeles Lakers to three consecutive titles in the early 2000s.

Jackson won his 11th championship as a head coach during Jenning’s rookie season, 2009-10.

Jackson has already challenged Jennings to raise his game and win Sixth Man of the Year in 2016-17. Remaining healthy will be a challenge, as will improving his shot selection and confidence when attacking the basket.

Jennings has all the makings of a Knicks fan favorite.

Jackson is looking to help him become a winner.