Former SRJC head basketball coach and best-selling author Tom Mitchell will host NBA legends Phil Jackson and Chris Mullin at SRJC for a discussion about the spiritual nature of sports.

Jakusho Kwong-roshi, the spiritual leader at the Sonoma Mountain Zen Center, will also speak at the event about his spiritual relationships with Jackson, Mullin and Mitchell.

“There will be a lot of improv. None of the answers will be scripted in any way. I wanted the discussion to be authentic as possible,” Mitchell said.

The event begins at 5 p.m. Sept. 16 in SRJC’s Haehl Pavilion with Mitchell scheduled to introduce the evening’s keynote Jackson and Mullin. Jackson will describe the spiritual nature of sports and how Zen has influenced his philosophies in coaching and in life. Mullin will share his experience of overcoming personal challenges and being a member of the 1992 Dream Team.

Kwong-roshi will speak last to share how he teaches Zen in everyday life. The night will finish with a lengthy Q and A with the audience.

To some, the practice of Zen, spirituality and basketball might not mix, however the guest speakers would disagree. “Showing competitiveness while expressing compassion is a huge part of sports and a spiritual way of life. Being present and mindful in the moment all can help overcome challenges in life and sports,” Mitchell said.

Jackson, nicknamed the Zen Master, coached Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant and possesses more NBA championship rings than fingers. He has practiced the art of Zen for more than a decade and holds a strong connection with Kwong-roshi.

Mitchell began his relationship with Jackson after reading his book “Sacred Hoops: Spiritual Lessons of a Hardwood Warrior” and presenting Jackson with a piece of cloth signed by the Dalai Lama.

The local star, Mullin is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and a five-time NBA All-Star. He has held an active and powerful friendship with Mitchell since 1995 after meeting at a local autograph signing. They immediately sparked a spiritual bond while sharing their personal experiences.

Mitchell spent 20 years at SRJC as a sport psychology professor and basketball coach and then worked in the NBA for 14 years as a sports counselor. He also co-authored the best-selling book “The Winning Spirit: Sixteen Timeless Principles That Drive Performance Excellence” with NFL Hall of Fame member Joe Montana.

Tickets are available at the ASP Center and at the door for $25 general admission and $15 for ASP students. All proceeds will benefit the Sonoma Mountain Zen Center.