Some things are just meant to be. Despite having no 1st round pick, the Chicago Bulls still found a way to make some noise in the 2021 NBA draft. This by selecting All-American and two-time All-Big Ten Illinois guard Ayo Dosunmu. A Chicago-native. If ever there was a player and team that just seems to fit, it’s these two. Not only do the Bulls get a great story, but they also get a damn good player too.
Dosunmu was a focal point of a really good Illini team in 2021. He averaged 20.1 points, 5.3 assists, and 6.3 rebounds. Demonstrating his considerable versatility. While not the most natural shooter in the world, he handles the ball well and has the athleticism to consistently finish at the rim. On top of that, he shows plenty of potential as a defender. Something the Bulls can definitely use more of.
CHICAGO'S OWN.
WELCOME HOME, AYO. pic.twitter.com/ghTsi0NLFc
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) July 30, 2021
One thing about Dosunmu?
He goes 100 mph all the time. A high-energy guy. That is something this Bulls team can use a lot more of. He was the engine for Illinois this past season. Every time they had a big win, he was often the one showing out. Just taking the Big Ten final against Ohio State. A game where he delivered 16 points, nine rebounds, and four assists. All while logging 41 minutes on the floor. Or the 36 points he dropped on the road in Missouri.
This young man can play basketball and he still has athletic upside left to explore. If he can somehow develop his shooting stroke? Then he is going to be a dangerous weapon for this Bulls team. As things stand, he should become a valuable member of the bench. Depth has been a problem for Chicago. Especially behind Zach Lavine. That could be fixing to change.
Ayo Dosunmu got his wish to play at home and will be bringing a big chip on his shoulder with him.
Ayo Dosunmu was a 1st round talent and a steal for the Bulls!!! Kid plays hard and will play with a chip on his shoulder to prove the so called talent evaluators wrong. Lezzz Go! #BullsNation
— Stacey King (@Stacey21King) July 30, 2021
🙌🙌🙌 @AyoDos_11 is @NBA Bound!
— Illinois Men's Basketball (@IlliniMBB) July 30, 2021