Why Billy Donovan Celebrates Matas Bouzelis Declining Dunk Contest
Earlier this week, Chicago Bulls guard Matas Buzelis declined the invitation to compete in NBA Slam Dunk Contest. A move that might come as a surprise to some because of his lineage of viral dunks this season.
However, it was a decision wholeheartedly welcomed by the head coach Billy Donovanaccording to Joe Cowley of The Chicago Sun-Times.
“It was obviously his decision; I wasn’t involved,” Donovan said.
Overall, Donovan noticed a change in Bouzelis’ approach to the game. As a result, he values his growth and the sense of responsibility that comes with it.
“I know from this standpoint of being around him, physically and mentally, he’s been on him a lot this year,” Donovan said.
“I don’t think it’s any different than any player. It’s just his age, the change in role, the change in responsibilities, all those things. I give him credit for making the decisions that he thinks are best for him going forward.”
Bouzelis, 21, is in his second full season with the Bulls. He is averaging 14.9 points and 5.3 rebounds. Bouzelis scored 20 points and grabbed eight rebounds in Chicago’s 113-110 loss to the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday.
Overall, he became a vital presence in the Bulls offense as a starter. His run-and-shoot style of play has done wonders for him, especially when playing alongside Josh Giddy.
Earlier in the season, Donovan said Bouzelis “didn’t arrive” in relation to his talent and maturing alignment.
Last year, Buzelis competed in a dunk contestbut did not pass the first round.
However, it will be competing in his second straight NBA Rising Stars game February 13. NBA All-Star Weekend is February 13-15 in Los Angeles.
2026-01-29 17:00:00
