The Associated Press

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. - Phil Jackson stood at the podium in the interview room Tuesday night with four of his five grown children and said there is a "pretty slim chance" he will coach the Los Angeles Lakers next season.

Then he said it again.

"I've had a lot of persuasion given to me by these kids. They were hoping I could win the 10th and retire, but maybe losing this one, this opportunity is enough for me to say that it's time to give it up," he said. "But right now I'm not ready to make that decision or give that statement."

So although Jackson wouldn't commit, it certainly appeared to be a farewell - at least for the time being - from a 58-year-old coach whose perfect record in the NBA Finals was spoiled by the Detroit Pistons, leaving him tied with Red Auerbach for most titles by an NBA head coach (nine).

Jackson said he planned to meet with members of the Lakers' organization in the days ahead to discuss a future that promises to be filled with changes.

Question No. 1 will be whether the franchise still believes Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant can co-exist. Bryant plans to opt out of his contract and become a free agent, although he has said he wants to be "a Laker for life."

Not only will Bryant be a free agent, but Gary Payton and Karl Malone also can opt out of their contracts. O'Neal - already angry that the Lakers wouldn't give him a contract extension - could demand a trade.

NBA