Michael Jordan didn't just assert himself on the court in Thursday's 98-88 victory over the Atlanta Hawks. He asserted himself in the locker room as well, chastising his teammates at halftime about their uninspired play in the second quarter that allowed the Hawks to rally to a four-point halftime lead.

The tongue-lashing wasn't the type that usurped Coach Doug Collins's authority. Instead, Jordan let them know what they had better do if they want to earn his trust and respect and to win games.