Coby White gives Patrick Williams props for improving his shooting efficiency

In a virtual repeat of last season, Chicago Bulls forward Patrick Williams got off to a listless start this season. But unlike last season, where Bulls coach Billy Donovan stuck with him until he found his groove, this season, Williams found himself riding the pine five games into the new season as the coaching staff went with veteran forward Torrey Craig in the starting five.

Since then, the fourth overall pick of the 2020 NBA Draft has found his rhythm and is playing a crucial role in the Bulls’ rise from the NBA’s basement. Bulls guard Coby White said that given the amount of work Williams puts in daily, it was only a matter of time before the 21-year-old forward started showcasing his skillset.

Horrendous start

The road to where Williams is now was challenging, as he had to endure a horrendous start. His first 15 games this season saw him average just 5.8 points on 33 percent shooting. He also grabbed a measly 3.5 rebounds per game—a figure that isn’t ideal for a power forward that the franchise pegged to lead them to the next era of Bulls basketball.

Rather than sulk, Williams stuck to what he knew best: work. He got back in the gym, put up shots, and most importantly, he found his confidence.

That shooting confidence is evident in the numbers Williams has put up in the Bulls’ last 14 games: 13.9 points on 51 percent shooting, including 52 percent from rainbow country, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists.

“It always evens out. If you’re a great shooter, it always evens out, especially for guys like P, who puts in the time and effort every day and gives his all to the game,” White said.

Patrick Williams buries the open 3-ball 🎯

pic.twitter.com/NMwumKAZPs
— Bulls Nation (@BullsNationCP) December 21, 2023

Can't cheat the grind

White let everyone in the locker room in on a little secret about Williams: the former Florida State standout is a gym rat who often gets kicked out of the practice facility. However, White shared that even when that happens, the 22-year-old always seems to make his way back inside.

“I feel like if you give your all to the game, it’ll always love you back. He puts in the time and effort every day. Even when they try to kick him out of the gym, he’ll just sneak back in at night,” White shared.

Patrick Williams buries the open 3-ball 🎯

pic.twitter.com/NMwumKAZPs
— Bulls Nation (@BullsNationCP) December 21, 2023