© David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Ayo Dosunmu on newfound partnership with fellow young gun Coby White
Whether by accident or design, the Chicago Bulls have stumbled upon a backcourt combination that could shape the franchise's future for years to come. Ayo Dosunmu and Coby White, two dynamic young guards with plenty of potential, have quickly developed a strong partnership on and off the court.
Injuries have opened the door for Ayo
While White has certainly made the most of the situation after he was handed the starting reins before the season tipped off, Ayo’s path to minutes has been anything but traditional. The 38th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft was slated to be the fourth guard in the Bulls’ rotation, especially with the team’s acquisition of Jevon Carter in the offseason.
However, season-ending injuries to Zach LaVine and Patrick Williams and Carter's ineffectiveness have forced head coach Billy Donovan to turn to Ayo for significant minutes. And the third-year guard has not disappointed, averaging 10.8 points, 2.9 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game.
The former Illinois star has been even more stellar in the last 24 games, averaging 15.3 points, 4.4 dimes, and 3.0 rebounds per night while playing heavy minutes. Ayo has also been shooting the ball efficiently, making 52 percent from the field, including 44 percent from long range.
Building chemistry with White
Both young guys, Ayo and White, have been thrust into the fire due to injuries to key players. They have not backed down from the challenges. They have also formed a strong bond on and off the court, helping each other improve their game.
“I mean, we’re both still young. We’re both still trying to find ways to become better people off the court and better players on the court. So, the sky is the limit. This is pretty much new for us both, playing together so much. Now we’re trying to keep building that chemistry, building that camaraderie,” Ayo said.
