SEATTLE () -- Chicago Bulls coach Phil Jackson created a stir at the NBA Finals by saying he might take a year off to commune in Montana if he doesn't get a satisfactory contract offer this summer.


Jackson said he had long considered taking time off after seven years, a period he called a "cycle of man."


Said Jackson: "The only reason I'd come back is if Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman are back because of the chemistry that's been created here."


Jordan had promised he would follow Jackson if he went elsewhere, but the league's best player said Tuesday he was loyal, but not loyal enough to go to Montana.





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