Matas Buzelis: 'I feel like I'm working harder than anyone at this stage of the squad'
Chicago Bulls rookie Matas Buzelis he creates excitement with his versatility and high basketball IQ. At 6-foot-10, he combines size, skill, and athleticism, making him a valuable addition to the Bulls' roster.
Buzelis comes from a rich basketball background. His grandfather, Arvydas Jankauskashe was a former player and coach, along with his other grandfather, Petras Buzelis, captain of Zalgiris Kaunas, winning six Lithuanian League titles. His grandmother, Elena Buzeliene, is one of the greatest Lithuanian handball players, winner of two European championships. his mother, Kristina Jankauskaiteexcelled in Lithuanian youth basketball, while his father, Aidas Buzelisplayed in the Lithuanian Basketball League and worked as a massage therapist for the National Team.
In an interview with HoopsHype, on behalf of Call of Duty Black Ops 6, Buzelis discussed his NBA journey, the draft process, his basketball idols, and his goals with the Chicago Bulls.
(During the NBA Summer League in Vegas, the Buzelis, rookies and vets participated in a Call of Duty-Minute Two Drill in the War Room suite. Two days later, Bronny James won the $10,000 prize).
Matas Buzelis: It's amazing. Being around NBA guys, that's what I always wanted to be around when I was younger. So since I'm in the NBA, I won't give up my chance to succeed.
MB: I mean, I hit a lot of shots, but that's just like the least thing I'm worried about. As a defensive position. I would also say to be a better teammate when I'm on the bench. And I would say getting players better by helping them.
July 14, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski (2) dives in front of Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis (14) during the third quarter at the Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
MB: You know, like cheering on other guys who play. I think I did a good job, but I could be better. And I stand up for my teammates when they leave the game. I was really tired, and when you're tired, your brain says to shut down a little. And sometimes I didn't stand up and lift up my teammates, but that's just the little things in the game.
MB: I think I can do it all. Get back, block the shot, hit the ball. I can pass the ball. I feel like I can do it all on the field, honestly.
MB: Yes.
Better than Zachary Risacher and Alex Sarr?
MB: Yes.
July 14, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Daeqwon Plowden (29) defends against a shot attempt by Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis (14) in the first quarter at the Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
MB: Well, my dad always told me to be humble, but I feel like I'm working harder than anyone at this stage of training, and that's where confidence comes from. I'm not one of those guys who just talks for no reason. I really work hard at my game, that's why I'm confident in my abilities.
MB: No man. It was zero-zero. Wherever you are taken, one to 60, whatever, 58, it doesn't matter. Everyone is in the NBA, and you will have to compete with them. You have to see them no matter where you go. It's just a difference in income.
MB: That means nothing to me. I will play basketball for free.
MB: It's hard to draw people to Vegas to see young guys play. That has nothing to do with Ignite. Ignite did an amazing job, and I would do it 10 times over. That was the best situation I could have put myself in. And it's hard to get people to watch young kids play in Vegas.
MB: Yes, definitely. Some players in college won't even touch a G League field, you know, unfortunately. And I played with players who were almost superstars. Kenneth Faried, Lance Stephenson, all those guys. And I got NBA experience.
MB: The way he approaches the game, the way he plays, yes, that he wants to win everything, not just basketball.
MB: Otherwise, I will go Stephen Curry. Two, I'll just put it Anthony Edwards. Three, let's go, man, in three, I'll go…
MB: Well, I'm not at that level yet. But of these three, there are so many options. This is difficult. I'll go with him, let me go with Jalen Brunson on my three. Well, let me go with Jalen Brunson in my time together. Let me go, let me go, at three o'clock Anthony Edwardsand at four o'clock, I leave Kevin Durant. at five, Nikola Jokic.
MB: Maybe Brobecause it's hard to sink Bron, so if you do, you get stronger.
MB: Well, luckily I was invited to see a preview of Black Ops 6, and that's why I'm here.
MB: It means a lot because it really started with my brother and I playing when we were young, maybe when we were 13, 14. And now being part of the Black Ops family, the Call of Duty family, means a lot. And I'm excited that this game is coming out.
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