The basketball accomplishments of Michael Jordan have been well-documented by writers worldwide. His Most Valuable Player trophies in the regular season, as well as in the playoffs, put him in the category of being the best basketball player of all time. Even those who disagree with that designation would at least put him on the greatest team of all time, and the word "team" is what this column is about.

Most people overlook the fact that Jordan is, and always has been, the consummate team player. He has great confidence in his ability to make the crucial baskets, doesn't think twice about asking for the ball in critical situations and loves it when he's put to the test. Michael has never hesitated when he was being double-teamed to pass the ball to an open teammate, however. His confidence in them enables the other players to also reach new heights.

A classic demonstration took place in the '97 playoff series between the Chicago Bulls and the Utah Jazz. The Bulls won the first two games in Chicago and the Jazz won the next two games in Salt Lake City. Four of the six games were decided by five points or less, so the contest was extremely close.

Perhaps the most significant play of the series took place in the waning seconds of the sixth game in Chicago. With five seconds on the clock, Jordan was guarded, so he could not make a shot. Without hesitation, he threw the ball to Steve Kerr, who dropped in a 17-foot jump shot from behind the free-throw line for three points.

Jordan's confidence in Kerr was a determining factor in Kerr making the shot that ended the series. That's team play. We all need to remember that individuals score points, but teams win games. Take that approach in your life, and I'll see you at the top!

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