Jordan answers fan e-mail (1/7/98)

Gregg Teschner from HOG MOUNTAIN , GA.

Q:Upon your retirement would you be interested in coaching basketball on any level?

A:Actually, I don’t see myself coaching basketball once I retire. I’m not sure I have the patience to be a good coach because I have such high expectations for players. Maybe I’ll mellow out as I get older, but at this point, I don’t think I’ll be looking for a coaching job when I retire.

Jason Hemingway from Fayetteville, NC

Q:Do you think that the Bulls are regaining some of that form that made you world champs five times in the last seven years?

A:Well it certainly looks as if we’ve improved since the start of the season. While we are all looking forward to Scottie’s return, I feel that we have developed a rhythm, and are back in our championship form.

Kathy Moor from Panama, Pana

Q:How does it feel to be such a strong role model for so many young people?

A:Being a role model for young people is not a position that I have sought -- it’s something that comes with my job. I truly believe that the best role models for young people today should still be their parents or teachers. However, I must accept that my actions will influence my younger fans. The same way I must be a role model for my own children, I accept the challenge of being a role model for others.

Justin Barrett from Orem, UT

Q: It is well known that you have a competitive nature on and off the court. How do you keep up that tenacious and competitive drive every single day?

A:I think I was born a naturally competitive person...I love to compete at everything I do. Certainly, it helps to be focused on a goal, because that fuels my competitive fire. This year, I am focusing on winning another championship, so I am motivated each game to peform at my highest level.

Rhonda Chesley from Burley, ID

Q:What was your childhood like? Was it your dream to becom a pro-basketball player?

A:I have great memories of my childhood growing up in Wilmington, North Carolina. I always thought that I would be a professional baseball player, because I was a better baseball player growing up. Then I started to grow, and continued playing basketball -- and by my junior-senior year, I started to think about professional basketball. However, I continued playing baseball, and even considered attending a college where I could play both sports. However, I fell in love with UNC...