Oklahoma, USA; Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan talks with guard Ayo Dosunmu (12) during overtime against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center. © Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY SportsBulls coach Billy Donovan has noticed Ayo’s strong play recently.
Chicago BullsChicago BullsA lot of people have noticed third-year guard Ayo Dosunmu after the Chicago Bulls re-signed free agents Jevon Carter and Coby White before the season started.
In addition to Dosunmu and young Dalen Terry, the Bulls have four point guards.
But the Illinois guard has proven he’s up for the challenge and has played outstanding basketball in the Bulls’ last two games, winning both.
After beating the New Orleans Pelicans, Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan had nothing but praise for Dosunmu.
The competition is very fierceDespite barely playing in the Bulls’ first 17 games of the season, Dosunmu’s number was called when All-Star point guard Zach LaVine was sidelined with leg soreness. Dosunmu showed his readiness with 14 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals during the Bulls’ 120-113 win over the Milwaukee Bucks.
He then had 15 points, three dimes and two steals in a 124-118 win over the Chicago Pelicans.
Dosunmu’s recent actions have not gone unnoticed by Donovan.
“I really appreciate his personality.
He is very competitive. He doesn’t give up, he has room to improve, he plays defensively, he plays every role you ask him to play,”
Donovan said.A different player from last seasonDosunmu, the 38th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, defied the odds in his rookie season, being named to the All-Rookie team in place of the injured Lonzo Ball.
He repeated most of those numbers in his second season, but his 3-point shot was unreliable and he was replaced by veteran Pat Beverley for the final five of the season.
Donovan has seen some positive changes for the 23-year-old this season.
Although his speed was held, Dosunmu was methodical and patient in the pick-and-roll, allowing him to read the defense better.
“I think we’re going to see a different player than we did a year ago,” Donovan said.
Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan gestures to protect Coby White (0) during the second half at the United Center.
