Tomjanovich is highly respected in the NBA

Former Houston coach Rudy Tomjanovich has been contacted by the Los Angeles Lakers about replacing Phil Jackson, according to reports.

Houston television station KRIV and The Houston Chronicle both carried a statement from Tomjanovich confirming he would look into the position.

"I have been contacted and I am interested in discussing things with the Lakers and hearing what they have to say," he said.

Jackson decided not to return as Los Angeles coach on Friday, just days after the heavily favoured Lakers lost to the Detroit Pistons in the NBA Finals.

Jackson coached the Lakers to three straight championships in five seasons.

Rockets general manager Carroll Dawson told KRIV that Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak called to ask for permission to talk to Tomjanovich, who is still under contract to the club.

The 55-year-old resigned as Rockets coach a year ago to undergo treatment for bladder cancer.

Having won his battle against the disease, he had planned to sit out at least two full seasons before considering a return to coaching.

Tomjanovich worked as a scout for the team last season.

Lakers spokesman John Black declined to comment on the team's search for a new coach.