Shaquille O'Neal Says Deion Sanders Has Phil Jackson Qualities

Is Coach Prime the new Zen Master?

Is Coach Prime the new Zen Master? According to Shaquille O'Neal, Deion Sanders reminds him of Phil Jackson, the legendary coach who won 11 NBA championships with the Bulls and Lakers. 

At first glance, that comparison looks like a stretch. Sanders is only three games into his stint as Colorado football coach, though he did win two SWAC titles at Jackson State. Jackson's coaching achievements earned him Basketball Hall of Fame honors. 

But O'Neal saw a similar calm demeanor from Sanders on the sidelines during Colorado's win over Colorado State last Saturday.

"When they were down 15, there was a camera panned to Deion’s face, and it reminded me of Phil Jackson,” O’Neal told TMZ. “And I’ve always said, ‘If the general doesn’t panic, the troops don’t panic.’"

Deion Sanders's calm presence on the Colorado sideline reminded Shaq of his Hall of Fame coach :: Greg Nelson/Sports Illustrated

The Buffaloes did indeed rally, albeit from a 28–17 deficit in the fourth quarter. But those watching the game may have noticed Sanders showing no signs of frenzy or panic on the sideline. 

To O'Neal, that was reminiscent of Jackson taking over a Lakers team that had been swept out of the playoffs during the previous two seasons. Staying calm led to great success. 

"Deion right now is the best coach in college football," said O'Neal. "You heard it here first."