“I want to be able to go up and down four or five times without getting tired" - Ayo Dosunmu reveals what he's focused on the most heading into his sophomore season
Ayo Dosunmu
© Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Ayo Dosunmu is gearing up for a big sophomore season in the Association. The promising guard recently revealed what his focus is this offseason: building his stamina. This will be key for him as he looks to keep the momentum going after an impressive freshman campaign.
Taking the next step
After injuries decimated the Chicago Bulls' backcourt last season, Dosunmu was thrust into a more prominent role. He ended up playing over 2,000 minutes and started 40 games. However, the increased activity and responsibilities eventually took their toll on the young guard. The Illinois product hit the so-called "rookie wall." The increased attention of defenses on him didn't help matters as well.
"I don’t think any question his legs were tired. Physically, he hit a wall. But I also think the more these younger players play and the players and coaches from different teams watch film and start to see things, you start to get a better pulse of how you want to guard somebody. People got more familiar with him," said Bulls' head coach Billy Donovan of his young guard.
With that in mind, Dosunmu set out to prepare his mind and body for the rigors of the upcoming season. He worked with strength and conditioning coaches and bulked up to 200 pounds. He also worked with assistant coaches to improve his ball-handling, shooting, and decision-making. But the biggest focus for Dosunmu this offseason has been on building up his stamina. He wants to be able to play extended minutes without getting tired. This will be key as he looks to help lead the Bulls to a playoff push next season.
"I want to be able to go up and down four or five times without getting tired. With us playing faster and getting out in transition and playing a more open, free game, I would say me not getting tired would be a huge plus for me and the team because I can use my speed, make plays, get downhill and do what I do," Dosunmu said.
Big shoes to fill once again
Donovan has yet to decide who will replace the injured Lonzo Ball in the starting lineup. In training camp are several guards with varied skill sets and experience levels fully capable of assuming a starting role. There's Alex Caruso, Coby White, and the newly-signed Goran Dragic. However, Dosunmu pays it no mind. He knows winning is all that matters.
"Whenever I step on the court, whether I start or not, I’m going to compete. I’m going to play as hard as I can to help the team win. I think when you win, everybody eats, everybody looks good and that's the best thing," Ayo said.
