Matas Buzelis and the Bulls, it seemed written. The interest of the Chicago franchise in the former Team Ignite was clearly not unknown. However, he is surprised to have been called up in 11th position in this 2024 Draft, by the Bulls.
“They came to see me for a private test in Los Angeles. But no, I didn't expect to be here. Now that it is, I can't wait.”, he explains.
It should be remembered that Matas Buzelis was born in Chicago and played one season in high school in Illinois. So it's a homecoming for him, who was a big Derrick Rose fan growing up. It must be said that he was seven years old when the playmaker was crowned MVP of the season in 2011.
A Lithuanian connection
” I'm very grateful. I worked very hard to get to this point. I can only thank the Chicago franchise. It's important to me, I was born and raised here, so it's even better. I can't even really explain it. »
In addition to his direct link with the city, Matas Buzelis is also connected with the franchise for another reason: his origins. He is Lithuanian and his father, Aidas Buzelis, a former professional player, is none other than the physiotherapist of the Lithuanian national team. And he knows Arturas Karnisovas, vice president of the Bulls and two-time bronze medalist at the 1992 and 1996 Olympics, well.
“I don’t know him much, I spoke with him a little, but my father knows him, because he was on the national team with him”confirms the 19-year-old winger.
