How DeMar DeRozan inspires rookie Ayo Dosunmu
Ayo Dosunmu and DeMar DeRozan
Rookies who have veterans to guide them on their NBA journey are lucky. For example, Chicago Bulls rookie Ayo Dosunmu is blessed to have DeMar DeRozan as one of the veterans on his team, and he shares how the many-time All-Star inspires him.
DeMar DeRozan leading the way
DeMar elevated his game to an MVP level this season. Coming from a not so fruitful stint with the San Antonio Spurs, his addition to the Chicago Bulls in the summer convinced many that he would become the supporting cast of Zach LaVine and a mentor to the team’s youngsters. DeRozan is doing what he was hired to do and then some. The former Toronto Raptor is averaging a career-high in points with 28.3 per game, adding 5.1 assists and 5.3 rebounds.
Instead of just being the second option on offense, the Bulls rode DeMar DeRozan’s historic offensive performance, which saw him score at least 35 points on 50% shooting in eight games. The other players who achieved this feat in NBA history are:
- Wilt Chamberlain
- Elgin Baylor
- Michael Jordan
- Kobe Bryant
- LeBron James
- James Harden
Recommended Articles
More than the remarkable feat, what made rookie Dosunmu look up to DeMar is his approach to the game. He shared his biggest takeaway in his interview with Gilbert Arenas on “No Chill with Gilbert Arenas” on Fubo Sports.
“One thing i love about DeMar is his competitive spirit like you know, he always wants to go out there and compete each and every game, each and every night. He's not looking to make excuses who's ever out there, he's looking to compete and when you see that from you know one of your vets, one of your leaders, that make the whole locker room you know want to go harder.”
Ayo Dosunmu, “No Chill with Gilbert Arenas”
Carrying the team
The Bulls managed well despite the COVID protocols and injuries during the season. They lost Lonzo Ball, Alex Caruso, and Zach LaVine for several games, but Chicago remained among the top in East Conference. Much of it has got to do with DeRozan’s heavy lifting and the support he offers to the youngsters.
This season, Dosunmu has been playing beyond his years. He’s averaging 7.2 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists with the Bulls, and it caught DeRozan’s attention.
“He accepts his mistakes and holds himself accountable. That’s big for a young guy to be able to do that. The confidence he has within himself is amazing and you see it when he goes out and plays. He is always ready for the big moments.”
DeMar DeRozan, The Rookie Wire
Dosunmu’s playmaking skills and defense could help Chicago Bulls move forward. As long as he keeps working hard and listening to team vets, he’ll be a star sooner than later.
