On Sunday, excerpts of Jeanie Buss’ re-released memoir, ‘Laker Girl,’ made headlines as she wrote about her reaction to the team hiring Mike D’Antoni instead of Phil Jackson. She felt “betrayed” and was “practically destroyed” that her brother did not hire Jackson, who was prepared to return to the Lakers as head coach.
It clearly brought back ill feelings from last season, but Jim and Jeanie Buss prepared statements regarding the re-releasing of ‘Laker Girl.’ Jim first stated that Jeanie’s feelings reflect her feelings and frustrations from a year ago and they have both resolved the situation:
“The words and sentiments in Jeanie’s new book reflect her feelings and frustrations nearly a year ago, and how she felt at that time. I understand that Jeanie felt that way, and why she felt that way. Since that time, we have discussed the situation, the circumstances that led to it, and our feelings about it. Both of us feel this has been resolved and have put this behind us.”
Jeanie Buss stated that this situation has led to better communication between them and they are only focused on making the Lakers championship contenders:
“Jim has been great in terms of understanding my feelings about this and in fostering an atmosphere that has led to better communication. We have regular meetings and talks and are both committed to creating the best working environment possible, as are my sister and other brothers as well. We are focused only on what is best for the franchise and in making the Lakers championship contenders.”
With the city of Los Angeles discussing the Phil Jackson-Mike D’Antoni situation again as a result of the memoir, it was important for both Jim and Jeanie to inform the fan base that they have resolved their personal issues and are solely focused on bringing more championships to Los Angeles.
In a time where many are discounting the entire Lakers organization, it’s important to re-establish a sense of stability and it all begins in the front office. When the Buss family finds a new way to effectively run the team, people’s high expectations of the Lakers will return sooner than later.
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