Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis shared his thoughts on his first NBA season, his All-Rookie Second Team selection, and his mindset moving forward during an interview with K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network at the Las Vegas Summer League.
Buzelis, drafted 11th overall in 2024 by his hometown team, called the All-Rookie honor a reflection of years of sacrifice. “To have your name on something like that, to have the award, is always an honor,” he said, via HoopsHype, recalling long drives and long hours in the gym with his mother during his youth.
The Lithuanian-American rookie averaged 8.6 points and 3.5 rebounds over 80 games while starting 31. He also delivered several memorable performances, including a perfect 10-for-10 shooting night in February and a career-high 31 points against the Lakers in March.
Buzelis admitted he was “mad” he didn’t make the First Team, saying he always pushes for more. “I wanted that Rookie of the Year, but it’s all in God’s plan,” he told Johnson. “Second Team All-Rookie is not bad either.”
When asked about his ceiling as a player, the 20-year-old expressed confidence. “I don’t know. I think I could be the best,” he said. “I always believe — I always think — I could be the best. So I never put a limit on anything for me.”
In his rookie campaign, Buzelis also became the first Lithuanian to compete in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest and the first Bulls player in the event since 2007. He continued to impress during Summer League, averaging 22.5 points and 5.0 rebounds through two games, shooting nearly 43 percent from the field.
Buzelis emphasized that his mindset was shaped early in life and remains unchanged. “If you don’t think like that, I mean — it’s not the sport for you,” he concluded.
