Neither the New York Knicks nor Phil Jackson have publicly confirmed reports that Jackson is joining the Knicks' front office, but Carmelo Anthony confirmed the move earlier this week to reporters.  

For Melo, the decision to bring the Zen Master on board could be the right move for the future of the Knicks' franchise.

"You can always use Phil Jackson inside an organization, his philosophy, his mindset, his resume, what he brings to a team, what he brings to an organization," Anthony told the New York Daily News. "That goes without even saying, so we’ll see how that plays out."

It’s no secret that the Knicks are in dire need of revival after tormenting fans with a brutal 25-40 season. With 13 NBA championships acquired throughout his coaching and playing career, Jackson's new executive role could be just what the Knicks need. But even the Zen Master may not be able to keep Melo in New York.

"I don’t think it’ll have any effect on me, just as far as what I’m thinking or my decision or anything like that," Anthony said to the New York Daily News about his decision to become a free agent this summer. "Like I said, I haven’t talked to Phil yet, just to get his insight on a lot of things, what’s his plan, what’s his future plan, because everything's in his hands now."

NBA TV tweeted Wednesday night that Jackson is coming to the Knicks as soon as next week. But while the terms of the agreement are still being reached, there is no word on Jackson's official title. 

"I’m pretty sure anytime Phil Jackson is involved, he will be heavily involved, whether on the bench or in the front office, so the insight, the knowledge will still be there. Whether he’s sitting on the bench or sitting in the front office, that's never gonna change," Anthony said.

BET Sports News - Get the latest news and information about African-Americans in sports including weekly recaps, celebrity news and photos of your favorite Black athletes. Click here to subscribe to our newsletter. 

 (Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)