When time is ticking down and the game is tight, Caleb Wilson wants control. Even in the preseason, his desire to be in the spotlight remains strong. With 7.9 seconds left and a 102-100 deficit against the Memphis Grizzlies, Wilson was ready to make his move from the top of the arc. His approach was straightforward: a ball screen, followed by two dribbles to the right and a stepback shot. Wilson wasn’t aiming to tie the game; he wanted the win. Having already scored five three-pointers, he felt confident in his ability to make another.
The opportunity seemed promising, and the execution was solid. However, his shot fell short, hitting the front of the rim. It was a small setback. Despite the Chicago Bulls losing 104-100, Wilson stood by his decision in those final moments. “We all trying to go home,” he joked later. “Trying to end the game right there. No overtime. I’m going for it all every time.”
Despite entering the NBA with questions about his three-point shooting, Wilson showed his range in this game. At North Carolina, his role limited his attempts to 1.1 per game, where he had a 26% shooting percentage. Against the Grizzlies, Wilson was 5-for-11 from three-point range, scoring 15 of his 21 points from deep. This echoed his impressive summer league performance where he made seven out of 11 attempts. The real test begins when these shots start making a difference in regular-season games. Wilson’s first chance comes on Oct. 21 when the Bulls face the Toronto Raptors.
Matas Buzelis Sustains Ankle Injury
Bulls forward Matas Buzelis faced an early setback, rolling his ankle in the first quarter against the Grizzlies. The incident happened after he pinned Jaylen Wells’ shot to the backboard, just minutes into the game. After scoring the opening basket, Buzelis tried to continue, even making a spin move into a 3-point attempt. However, a reevaluation in the second quarter led to his removal. He ended with six points and one block in 12 minutes. Despite the incident, Buzelis expressed confidence about his recovery, intending to travel with the team to Denver for the next preseason game. “It’s not bad,” Buzelis commented. “Just being smart in preseason. Just a little sore, nothing crazy. I tried to play. I hate missing games. I think I’ll be ready for Sunday.”
Tobe Awaka Faces Tough Challenge
Bulls center Tobe Awaka faced a crucial test with injuries sidelining Nic Claxton and Zach Collins. Awaka, a 6-foot-8 undrafted forward, is known for his energy and drive. Guard Josh Giddey noted Awaka’s exceptional offensive rebounding skills. His role focuses on rebounding, setting screens, and passing. Despite his determination, Awaka struggled against the Grizzlies’ 7-3 center Zach Edey. Awaka captured four offensive rebounds but didn’t score. He ended with seven rebounds, two assists, and two turnovers in over 24 minutes. Edey scored 10 points with five rebounds, underlining the challenges the Bulls face until their full roster returns.
Lottery Matchup: Wilson vs. Boozer
The game also featured a notable matchup between lottery picks Caleb Wilson and Cameron Boozer. The two shared history both as teammates and rivals, from playing together in AAU to competing in college. Boozer, picked third overall, played limited minutes due to the Grizzlies’ strategy but managed 10 points, four rebounds, and three assists in little over 12 minutes on the court. Their camaraderie remained evident throughout the drafts and summer league.
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