Bulls complete their drive for five

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Michael Jordan says the team should remain intact.
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Scottie Pippen wants this group to make its mark as the best ever.
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"We're entitled to defend what we have until we lose it," Jordan said. "If we lose it, then you look at it and say, 'OK, let's change.'"

Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen hold their fifth championship trophy.

Jordan was speaking to a handful of reporters, but his words were intended for the two Jerrys, Reinsdorf and Krause, who run the Bulls. The talk of breaking up this team to begin the rebuilding process has dominated Chicago's postseason run, almost overshadowing the championship itself.

In the aftermath of his fifth title, Jordan spoke at length about keeping the team in tact.

GM Krause and owner Reinsdorf say they don't want the Bulls to suddenly fall off the competitive map like the Boston Celtics did after their legends retired following a great run in the 1980s. But when Krause and Reinsdorf were booed loudly during the trophy presentation at the United Center, it was clear where Chicago fans stand on the issue of rebuilding.

"Nobody is guaranteeing that rebuilding is going to be two, three, four, five years," Jordan said. "The Cubs have been rebuilding for 42 years."

MJ reiterated once again that he won't play next season unless the Bulls bring back coach Phil Jackson, whose contract is up.

"I have choices, and I will not choose to play for another coach," Jordan said bluntly.

As for rumors that the team might trade his right-hand man, Scottie Pippen, before he gets the chance to leave via free agency in 1998, Jordan said the Bulls owe it to Pippen to re-sign the underpaid All-Star now.

"There has to be some consideration, some sense of loyalty, to myself, to Scottie, to Phil and even to the guys who have given themselves over the last two years," Jordan said.

After sealing the victory with a dunk, Toni Kukoc rejoices with Dennis Rodman.

His Airness pointed out how the Bulls had gone from a franchise worth about around $13 million to $17 million when he arrived in 1984 to a mini-industry now valued at around $150 million. He said management needs to reward the players and coaches for that success.

"I don't know what it will take. Maybe (Reinsdorf) will have to mortgage his home or leverage his team against whatever banks he has," Jordan joked. "But I'd like to see us defend what we have obtained."

Pippen says he's hopeful the Bulls "will be a happy family again," but says management is holding all the cards.

"The power's in their hands. They're in control over whether I'm able to finish my career here," he said. "I think as a team we've made a stand."

Jordan's stand even included an expression of support for Dennis Rodman. Though the team is rumored to have made up its mind to not re-sign the enigmatic rebounder, MJ says even the Worm should get the opportunity to return.

"His dressing doesn't bother me. His hair doesn't bother me," Jordan said. "Sure, he goes wacko every now and then. We've come to live with that and accept it. But you can't find another player on the basketball court who works as hard as Dennis Rodman."