Chicago Bulls' Matas Buzelis Named NBA All-Rookie Second Team

Matas Buzelis, the Chicago Bulls' 11th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team after a strong finish to his rookie season. Initially receiving limited playing time, Buzelis significantly improved post-All-Star break, averaging around 13 points, 4.5 rebounds, and nearly 2 assists per game while also showcasing his defensive skills with 75 blocks, ranking fifth among rookies. His late-season surge helped the Bulls achieve a 15-5 run, and he joined notable Bulls rookies like Coby White, Patrick Williams, and Ayo Dosunmu in receiving All-Rookie honors. Despite limited minutes early in the season due to a cautious approach by head coach Billy Donovan, Buzelis' performance in the latter half earned him 15 first-place votes in the All-Rookie voting, placing seventh overall. He became the first Bulls player to earn All-Rookie recognition since Dosunmu in 2022 and demonstrated potential as a versatile two-way player and a cornerstone for Chicago's future. Buzelis' journey included historic rookie performances, including a perfect 10-for-10 shooting game and joining Charles Oakley and Michael Jordan as the only Bulls rookies with a 28-point, 9-rebound, and 6-assist game.