Caleb Wilson Seizes Opportunity in Preseason Game Against Grizzlies

When the game nears its end and pressure mounts, Caleb Wilson embraces taking charge. He thrives in crucial moments, eager to score even in a preseason game. Despite not impacting the record books, Friday’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies showcased Wilson’s ambition.

With just 7.9 seconds remaining, Wilson faced a 102-100 deficit. Positioned at the top of the arc, he executed a ball screen, dribbled twice to the right, and attempted a step-back jump shot. His goal was not merely to tie the game but to win it.

Wilson already made five 3-pointers and believed he could make one more. However, his shot fell short and hit the front rim. Though disappointed by the 104-100 loss, Wilson stood by his decision. In the locker room, he humorously remarked, “We all trying to go home. Trying to end the game right there. No overtime. I’m going for it all every time.”

Entering the NBA, Wilson faced criticism about his long-range shooting ability. At North Carolina, limited attempts restricted his growth, shooting only 1.1 times per game from beyond the arc at 26% accuracy. Skepticism lingered regarding his capacity to stretch the floor at the professional level.

In the loss, Wilson affirmed his shooting prowess, completing 5 of 11 attempts, scoring 15 of his 21 points from deep. His performance echoed his impressive summer league debut, where he sank seven of 11, including consecutive early-game shots. Nevertheless, these achievements await regular-season validation.

Wilson’s first regular season chance arrives on Oct. 21, as the Bulls face the Toronto Raptors on the road.

Takeaways from the Loss

Matas Buzelis Suffers Ankle Injury

Early in the game, Bulls forward Matas Buzelis rolled his right ankle awkwardly while landing. Occurring three minutes in, Buzelis scored the first basket before attempting to play through the injury.

Despite his determination, a further assessment during the second quarter led the Bulls to bench him for the remainder. Buzelis finished with six points and one block in under 13 minutes.

After the game, Buzelis downplayed the severity of his injury, expecting to join the team in Denver for Sunday’s match against the Nuggets. “It’s not bad,” he commented, attributing the decision to caution in preseason. “Just a little sore, nothing crazy. I tried to play. I hate missing games. I think I’ll be ready for Sunday.”

Tobe Awaka Faces Major Challenge

The Bulls have high hopes for center Tobe Awaka, despite his size. Standing at 6-foot-8, Awaka’s relentless pursuit compensates for physical limitations. Guard Josh Giddey extols him as possibly the finest offensive rebounder he’s encountered.

With centers Nic Claxton and Zach Collins sidelined, Awaka maximizes his preseason minutes to prove worthy. His role is straightforward: rebound, screen, and pass. His unselfish play complements the Bulls’ perimeter strengths, despite interior weaknesses.

Facing formidable Grizzlies center Zach Edey posed a challenge. Awaka secured four offensive rebounds but did not score, tallying seven boards, two assists, and two turnovers over 24 minutes. Edey’s moderate performance underscored limitations faced by the Bulls until Claxton or Collins return.

Lottery Matchup Highlights Familiar Rivalry

Friday’s game featured a compelling showdown between Wilson and No. 3 pick Cameron Boozer. Their shared history includes high school AAU team collaboration and collegiate rivalry at Duke and North Carolina, fostering mutual respect.

Despite limited playing time, Boozer managed 10 points, four rebounds, and three assists in just over twelve minutes. The Grizzlies’ decision to rest him in the second half allowed Wilson to take center stage in the competitive encounter.