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Gracie Gold Reads Phil Jackson: Figure Skater Inspired by Ex-Bulls Coach

By Kyla Gardner | February 10, 2014 9:46am
 U.S. Olympic figure skater Gracie Gold said she has been reading former Bulls coach Phil Jackson's writings to help calm her nerves and enjoy her skating.
U.S. Olympic figure skater Gracie Gold said she has been reading former Bulls coach Phil Jackson's writings to help calm her nerves and enjoy her skating.
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Robert Cianflone and Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

CHICAGO — Olympic figure skater Gracie Gold moved away from Chicago in September to train with a Los Angeles coach, but she's still getting help from a famous former Chicago coach — of basketball.

After skating her ladies' short program Sunday, Gold said she has been reading a book by former Bulls head coach Phil Jackson for inspiration.

When asked how important it is for her to embrace her love of skating, Gold responded:

"Really important. We've been reading Phil Jackson's book, and you know, when you let go of all the fear, that’s when you find the love for, not just sports, but anything in life."

Jackson has co-written nine books, and his most recent, "Eleven Rings," details his philosophy of mindfulness and Zen meditation in his later coaching years.

Gold scored a personal best 129.38 for her performance Sunday, helping the U.S. team clinch a bronze medal.