Matas Buzelis is a huge fan of Derrick Rose, thrilled to join his hometown Bulls
Lithuanian Wing didn’t anticipate to stay in the same place for long.
By K.C. Johnson
Jun 27, 2024 02:13 AM
presented by Nationwide Insurance Agent Jeff Vukovich
Matas Buzelis didn’t overstate the fact that despite playing for his home team, the Chicago Bulls, the Lithuanian athlete didn’t think he’d be available for the 11th spot during this Wednesday’s NBA Draft.
“They were there to watch the me from Los Angeles work out privately,” Buzelis said. “But there was no way I anticipate being here. Since I’m here, I’m very happy.”
Buzelis 19 years old, Buzelis was born within Chicago and played for one season with Hinsdale Central, where his younger brother plays. Later, he moved to prep schools and last year played for G League Ignite. He’s shocked that he’s joined the Bulls.
“Super grateful,” he said via Zoom. “I’m very thankful. I put in a lot of effort to reach this point. I cannot thank the Bulls organization enough.
“This is the best world. Being born and raised there, it makes it better. It is all to me. I can’t even explain it.”
Buzelis mentioned Derrick Rose, who he claimed “was an enormous influence on Chicago basketball” as his top Bull when he was a kid. Also, Buzelis believes that his G League background will prepare him for the next season.
“Play with the top players on the planet and get educated by the top coaches on the planet and having some veterans that have played included on NBA rosters and understand the challenges of going through the path we’ve been through,” Buzelis said. “So I’m sure I gained an advantage by being there.”
In an interview prior to the draft in a predraft interview with NBC Sports Chicago, Buzelis stated J.R. Smith as someone who has a style that he admires. It’s not a name often heard so that’s the reason Buzelis was questioned about it during a question which also asked him to identify his strengths and weaknesses.
“I must improve my strength. This will come later. I’m working on hitting,” he said. “What does that mean is blocking shots and pushing the ball into transition, getting straight into the offensive. Being an effective co-player.
“The J.R. Smith thing is myself being a ball fan. I’m a basketball fan. That’s why I watch many diverse players.”
The wing’s height is 6 feet 9 inches. He’s a first-generation American His parents were both professional players in Lithuania. The same country produced Bulls executive vice-president Arturas Karnisovas.
“I don’t really know him as well. My dad has known him since he played for Lithuania. Lithuania nation’s team.” Buzelis said. “I was chatting between me and (Karnisovas).”
Buzelis stated that he would like to be involved as soon as he can.
“Whatever my coach instructs him to perform, I’ll try to do it at the highest level of ability,” he said. “I’m eager to get my hands dirty and put in my best effort.”