As I look back on the day I signed my professional contract in 1973, I've never gone to sleep wondering if I could pay the bills or take care of my family. That's what basketball has done for me. It's given me the greatest of thrills from high school to college to the Olympics to coaching to broadcasting.

The one thing about players today is that they're very sensitive, and very fragile. They didn't grow up with tough coaches.

When hired three years ago, I willingly accepted the challenge of leading the Bulls back to the type of team this city richly deserves. I'm proud of the fact that each year the team has taken another step toward an NBA championship, and played with intense pride and determination.

I remember when I went to try out for the Olympic team in 1972, Coach Iba told me he didn't care how many points I could score because if I couldn't guard anybody, I wasn't going to make the team. I knew to make the team I had to become a better defender. If you can play offense, you can defend. It just comes down to competitive will.

I was taught by teachers, and if it's one thing I have it's a basketball mind and I try to pass it on and pay it forward.

When your teammate looks you in the eye and holds you accountable, that's the greatest kind of leadership there is

You don't want to be down 2-0 in a series. It's always important to try and get one on the opponent's home court. It makes your job at home easier.