Dalen Terry continues development in Summer League

After a rookie season that saw him play in just 38 games, Dalen Terry is eager to prove himself worthy of a spot in the Chicago Bulls’ rotation. He took part in the rigorous training sessions with team star DeMar DeRozan and continues to put in the work, this time in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Now, given ample minutes and opportunities on this stage, the Arizona native is showcasing the kind of skill and talent that made him the 18th overall pick of last year’s draft.

Trying not to do too much

With the spotlight on them, young studs have the tendency to feel the pressure and try to do too much. But Terry knows that good things come with intelligent decision-making, so he’s trying to remain calm and composed.

“I just didn’t want to come out here and try to do too much,” Terry said. “I feel like I turned the ball over a little early. But I slowed down a little bit and I just made the right reads. Obviously, I didn’t shoot it the best. I didn’t score it the best. But I feel like when it comes to a leadership standpoint, being a point guard on the team, just getting everybody involved, I got an A-plus.”

Beautiful no look hit ahead pass from Dalen Terry pic.twitter.com/MVFdhIDeCS
— Will Gottlieb (@Will_Gottlieb) July 8, 2023

Game still needs plenty of work

It’s apparent, though, that Terry remains a diamond in the rough. He has shot poorly in the Bulls’ two games, combining for an abysmal 9-of-35 shooting clip. His shooting mechanics and decision-making skills remain a work in progress.

“It’s all growth,” Terry said. “Obviously, I’ve had these mistakes before. But I feel like just slowing down just a little bit. Knowing I’m the marquee player on their scouting report, I’ve got to know when I change directions they’re coming. I know that when I come off the screens, they’re up on the screen. They’re putting their hands up. They’re active. So I’ve just got to know how to pick my spots, when to score, when to be a guard, when to be a leader.”

SHOWTIME SUMMER BULLS 🤩@DalenTerry | @JavonFreemanLib https://t.co/MT1q3AieGR pic.twitter.com/4oDSmEwoc5
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) July 9, 2023