Phil Jackson returning to coach Lakers

LOS ANGELES - After just one relaxing week in Montana, Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson decided he can handle another season of the NBA grind.

The two-time defending champion locked up its most important free agent of the summer on Thursday when Jackson announced he'll return next season, putting off retirement for at least another year to chase his 12th NBA title.

Jackson said last week he was worn out and leaning toward retirement after the Lakers' third straight long season culminating in the NBA Finals. He changed his mind after a week of rest and health evaluation at his offseason home, signing up for the unprecedented chance to win three consecutive NBA championships for the fourth time in his career.