Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan names Ayo Dosunmu full-time starting point guard

Can Ayo lead the Bulls to new heights?

© Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Ayo Dosunmu has been named the Chicago Bulls' full-time starting point guard. The writing had already been on the wall after the sophomore started all four preseason games and led his team to a 3-1 record. Now, the focus turns to when the games matter for real.

Trust in the young man

Bulls head coach Billy Donovan had earlier announced that he would decide who the starting point guard would be during training camp. He had numerous choices — veterans Goran Dragic and Alex Caruso, Coby White, and rookie Dalen Terry. In the end, Donovan went with Dosunmu, who had experience playing with the starters during his rookie year, wherein he started 40 games.

"He's basically going to start there for us," Donovan said after the Bulls beat the Milwaukee Bucks in their final preseason game. "I feel very comfortable with him. I think with Goran, with where he is at this stage and point in his career, there is a huge impact he can make on our team but Ayo right now is going to be the guy back there for us, and I think he's done a really good job this training camp and preseason games."

While the hometown kid's eye test showed a lot of tenacity and composure, the proof is in the pudding. Dosunmu averaged 10.2 points, 2.7 assists, and 3.2 rebounds while shooting 52.0 percent from the field and an impressive 6-of-11 from three-point range this preseason.

When told about his new starting gig, Dosunmu was glad and grateful for the trust shown in him by the Bulls.

"I'm thankful because this is a great organization and we have a chance to do something special. For me to be named the point guard of that, that's a blessing," said Dosunmu.

Ayo Dosunmu reacts to being officially named the #Bulls’ starting point guard.

“I’m thankful, because this is a great organization,” he says. “We have a chance to do something special.” pic.twitter.com/ZoD0EKoN7M

— Cody Westerlund (@CodyWesterlund) October 12, 2022

Earned not given

After a successful rookie campaign that earned Ayo an All-Rookie selection, he has worked hard to improve his game this offseason. Dosunmu has become a more consistent three-point shooter and finisher around the basket. His work has paid off as he looks to be in better shape physically and mentally coming into this season.

"I just want to show that what I went through last year, I learned from it. Good or bad, I want to always learn from it. That's how you get better," Dosunmu said.

Dosunmu will now be thrust into a starring role for a team with heightened aspirations. The pressure, though, does not faze Dosunmu.

"What I can do is go out there and be Ayo. That's all I know I can do. Just go out there and be who I am to the best of my capabilities," said Dosunmu. "Pressure comes when you're not prepared. When you put the work in when the lights are off, I think you shine when the lights are on."

Ayo hit the brakes! pic.twitter.com/f7OyG030GJ

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 12, 2022