Lakers' Jackson will not return; Bryant opts out of L.A. contract

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (AP) -- The Zen Master's coaching career with the Los Angeles Lakers is over.
Phil Jackson, one of the most successful coaches in NBA history, won't return as coach of the Lakers next season, his agent Todd Musberger said Friday.
The move was expected even before Jackson met with Lakers owner Jerry Buss following the coach's participation in season-ending exit interviews with several players earlier in the day.
Jackson's five-year, $30 million contract expires at the end of the month. He was discussing a contract extension, but the Lakers broke off talks in February until after the season.
Also, the Lakers announced Friday that Kobe Bryant, as expected, opted out of his contract to become an unrestricted free agent.
Jackson joined the Lakers in June 1999, and coached them to their first championship in 12 years in his first season. Two more titles followed, giving Jackson nine to tie him with former Boston coach Red Auerbach for the most in NBA history.
The Lakers reached the NBA Finals this year before losing to the Detroit Pistons.
In 14 seasons as a head coach, Jackson is 832-316 for a .725 winning percentage -- best in NBA history. His 175 playoff wins are the most ever and his .717 postseason winning percentage is also tops.
Karl Malone has already opted out of his contract, although he hopes to play for the Lakers if healthy. Gary Payton and Derek Fisher could follow Bryant and Malone and opt out of their deals.